almost lost control

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "almost lost control" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone nearly lost their ability to manage or handle a situation, often due to strong emotions or external pressures. Example: "During the heated argument, I almost lost control and shouted at him."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Several times before that, he almost lost control while pushing his car past its limit.

The New York Times - Sports

There have been times when he has almost lost control of his image, though — with allegations of sexual harassment and admiring comments about Hitler.

The New Yorker

Eno said what was exciting about this was the way he almost "lost control of the music", which became a theme that he pursued.

The Guardian - Music

A week ago tonight, and once again on sunday night, the Farley management almost lost control of the convention and the chances of their candidate for the nomination by losing control of their own associates.

The New York Times

"We'd heard this perfectly good Beethoven, and we were saying, 'Very nice,' when the screaming started, and we almost lost control of the car," the violinist Philip Setzer recalled.

The New Yorker

By then, however, Codesal had almost lost control of the game, such was the strength of Argentinian feeling on the subject of the penalty with which Andreas Brehme won the cup for the West Germans.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

"Venus in Fur," she said, had allowed her to explore "white rage — where everything goes white and you almost lose control of your body".

The New Yorker

I barely survived, landing in the couloir in a cloud of snow and detritus and almost losing control.

Forbes

They also realise that Gaddafi's recent speeches and tactics show a desperate dictator who has almost entirely lost control.

The Guardian - Opinion

For no apparent reason the Serb repeatedly stumbled, almost as if he had lost control of his legs.

Independent

Greece's new leader, they cried, was like the mythological figure Phaeton who, when given the reins of the sun chariot for a day, lost control and, almost destroyed the earth.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "almost lost control", ensure the context clearly indicates what type of control was nearly lost (e.g., physical control, emotional control, control of a vehicle).

Common error

Avoid using "almost lost control" when the situation clearly indicates that control was completely lost. Use it only when the loss was narrowly averted.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "almost lost control" functions as a modifier, describing a state of being on the brink of losing command or composure. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is correct and usable. It commonly modifies subjects in sentences, indicating a near-loss of control in various situations.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "almost lost control" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to describe situations where control was nearly lost but ultimately retained. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. It is most frequently found in news and media, with a neutral register suitable for formal writing. When using the phrase, ensure that the context clearly defines what type of control was nearly lost. Consider alternatives such as "nearly lost control" or "came close to losing control" to add nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

nearly lost control

Replaces "almost" with "nearly", a synonym indicating proximity to losing control.

came close to losing control

Emphasizes the nearness of losing control, adding a slight nuance.

was on the verge of losing control

Indicates that the loss of control was imminent.

nearly spun out of control

Specifically refers to losing control in a spinning motion, often in vehicles.

came within an inch of losing control

Uses an idiom to highlight how close one was to losing control.

narrowly avoided losing control

Emphasizes the successful avoidance of losing control, albeit by a small margin.

teetered on the brink of losing control

Suggests instability and a precarious position regarding control.

momentarily lost grip

Focuses on a temporary loss of control or hold on a situation.

came close to being overwhelmed

Suggests that one was nearly overcome by circumstances, leading to a loss of control.

struggled to maintain control

Highlights the effort involved in preventing a loss of control.

FAQs

How can I use "almost lost control" in a sentence?

"Almost lost control" describes a situation where someone narrowly avoided losing command or composure. Example: "The car "almost lost control" on the icy road."

What can I say instead of "almost lost control"?

Alternatives include "nearly lost control", "came close to losing control", or "was on the verge of losing control", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "almost lost control" in formal writing?

Yes, "almost lost control" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when describing events in a neutral and factual manner. It is commonly found in news reports and professional contexts.

What's the difference between "almost lost control" and "completely lost control"?

"Almost lost control" indicates that control was nearly lost but ultimately maintained. "Completely lost control", on the other hand, signifies that control was entirely lost and the situation was no longer manageable.