a sure command of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a sure command of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a strong understanding or mastery of a particular subject or skill. Example: "Her years of study and practice have given her a sure command of the French language."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

He has a sure command of the terms of the American civic religion.

The New Yorker

DURING his short political life, George Bush has thrived on a sure command of a relatively narrow political agenda.

The Economist

Smithfield's 94-page lawsuit sputters with an outrage not always grounded in a sure command of the English language.

The New York Times

He showed a sure command of the music and shaped phrases with a feeling for the pungent rise and fall of Wagner's poetry.

The New Yorker

McGahern certainly knew the price of cows, but not many Irish writers of his generation had such a sure command of English prose and its subtleties.

The Guardian - Books

He was a rigorous reasoner with a sure command of legal subtleties and constitutional principles and a knack for connecting them to the lives of ordinary people and the messy realities of politics and government.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

"Have you been out there?" Klay shows sure command of his craft in tracing the chaplain's anguish as it becomes a crisis of faith.

The New Yorker

When, in the more spacious collaborations with Ferber and Hart, Kaufman strays from this formula, his sure command of structure, dialogue, and pace holds everything together.

The New Yorker

From the start, the reader senses Heaney's sure command of rhythm and line-endings, the firmness of his fractures: the literal translations, by comparison, move spongily from line to line.

The Guardian - Books

It helps, too, that Thielemann has as sure a command of the composer's idiom as any conductor today.

The New Yorker

French entry into the war changed its dynamics, for the British were no longer sure of command of the seas and had to worry about an invasion of their home islands and other colonial territories across the globe.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a sure command of", ensure the context clearly indicates the specific area or skill being mastered. This avoids ambiguity and strengthens the impact of your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "a sure command of" when describing a basic understanding. Reserve this phrase for instances where genuine mastery or exceptional proficiency is evident to avoid exaggeration.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sure command of" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a high degree of skill, knowledge, or control. Ludwig AI confirms the correct usage of this phrase, showcasing its role in describing expertise.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a sure command of" is an effective phrase to describe someone's expertise or mastery in a specific field. It's grammatically correct and primarily used in news and media contexts. Ludwig AI confirms this. While it may not be as common as other similar phrases, using "a sure command of" adds sophistication to your writing. Remember to reserve this expression for situations where genuine proficiency is evident, and be mindful of the specific skill or area being described to avoid any ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a firm grasp of

Emphasizes a solid and unwavering understanding, differing slightly in its focus on comprehension rather than active control.

a strong understanding of

Highlights a deep and comprehensive knowledge, shifting the emphasis from control to intellectual comprehension.

complete mastery of

Suggests an unparalleled level of skill and expertise, implying a higher degree of proficiency than simply having "a sure command".

thorough competence in

Focuses on the practical ability to perform effectively, differing in its emphasis on demonstrated skill rather than inherent control.

expert knowledge of

Highlights specialized and in-depth awareness, shifting from command to the breadth and depth of information.

adeptness at

Emphasizes skill and dexterity in performing a task, rather than comprehensive control or understanding.

proficiency in

Indicates a high level of skill acquired through training or experience, focusing on the demonstrated ability to perform.

skillfulness in

Highlights the artful and refined application of abilities, changing the emphasis from general command to specific skill.

facility with

Suggests an ease and natural ability in using or handling something, focusing on effortless application.

aptitude for

Emphasizes a natural talent or inclination, differing from the idea of acquired command or control.

FAQs

How can I use "a sure command of" in a sentence?

Use "a sure command of" to describe someone's expertise or mastery in a particular area. For example, "The conductor demonstrated "a sure command of" the orchestra, leading them through a complex symphony with ease."

What are some alternatives to "a sure command of"?

You can use alternatives like "a firm grasp of", "a strong understanding of", or "complete mastery of" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "a sure command on" or "a sure command of"?

"A sure command of" is the correct and idiomatic expression. "A sure command on" is grammatically incorrect in this context.

What's the difference between "a sure command of" and "a strong knowledge of"?

"A sure command of" suggests not only knowledge but also the ability to effectively use and control something. "A strong knowledge of" implies deep understanding without necessarily implying active control or application.