ability to command

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ability to command" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing someone's skill or capacity to lead, influence, or control a situation or group. Example: "Her ability to command respect from her peers is truly impressive."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The airstrikes have interfered with Mr. Hussein's ability to command his far-flung forces and thus helped the allied ground attack, American commanders say.

The New York Times

"Matt has the ability to command his other pitches.

The New York Times - Sports

Even Republicans express grudging admiration for Mr. Schumer's ability to command large sums of money.

The New York Times

"I knew that was potentially an issue," Johnson said of Mangini's ability to command respect.

The New York Times

Gordon Brown's ability to command his cabinet has "simply disappeared", David Cameron said today.

The Guardian

Their effectiveness, and ultimately our own safety, depends on their ability to command public trust.

The Guardian - Opinion

The events of the past week increase the doubts about her ability to command the military.

The New Yorker

Progress isn't just a seat at the table anymore but the ability to command it, too.

The New Yorker

That includes their ability to command six-figure fees for delivering speeches.

The Guardian

The second is the ability to command and control the things we have in space.

The Washington Post

But his ability to command sports fans' attention was not forgotten.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When emphasizing the effectiveness of leadership, pair "ability to command" with specific outcomes or achievements to demonstrate the impact of that ability.

Common error

Don't use "ability to command" in overly general contexts. Instead, specify what is being commanded (e.g. "ability to command resources", not just "ability to command").

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ability to command" functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the capacity or skill to exercise control or authority. As seen in the Ludwig examples, it often relates to leadership or strategic management.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Formal & Business

12%

Academia

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Science

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "ability to command" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase that refers to the capacity to lead, control, or direct. Ludwig AI analysis indicates its frequent use in news and media, formal business settings, and academic discourse. While alternative phrases like "skill in commanding" or ""capacity to lead"" exist, "ability to command" specifically highlights the power to give orders and ensure compliance. To use it effectively, provide specific contexts and avoid vagueness. Be aware of its professional tone for formal communications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

capacity to lead

Focuses on the leadership aspect, emphasizing the potential to guide others.

skill in commanding

Highlights the expertise and proficiency in directing or controlling.

power to direct

Emphasizes the authority and control one has over a situation or group.

capability to control

Focuses on the potential to manage and regulate.

leadership skills

General term for the qualities that enables someone to lead.

commanding presence

Describes someone who naturally inspires respect and obedience.

authority to govern

Refers to the legal or rightful power to rule.

influence over others

Stresses the impact and sway one has on people.

expertise in management

Highlights the knowledge and skill in overseeing operations.

talent for directing

Focuses on the natural aptitude for guiding and managing.

FAQs

How can I use "ability to command" in a sentence?

You can use "ability to command" to describe someone's capacity to lead or control a situation. For example: "Her "capacity to lead" the team was evident from the start."

What are some alternatives to "ability to command"?

Alternatives include "skill in commanding", "power to direct", or "capability to control", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "abilities to command" instead of "ability to command"?

Both are grammatically correct, but "ability to command" is more common when referring to a general skill. "Abilities to command" might be used when highlighting multiple, specific skills related to command.

What's the difference between "ability to command" and "leadership skills"?

"Ability to command" specifically emphasizes the capacity to give orders and ensure compliance, while "leadership skills" encompasses a broader range of qualities, including communication, motivation, and strategic thinking.