assert control

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "assert control" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express that someone has taken control of a situation or exerted their authority. For example, "The manager asserted control over the team by bringing in new policies."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

Syria's historic ability to assert control over Lebanon is weakening.

The New York Times

If Assad refuses, or imperils the safety of refugees, we should assert control of them.

The Guardian - Opinion

Chinese authorities have also sought to assert control by directly warning some online services.

The New York Times

"One reason the riots happened is that powerless people were trying to assert control desperately.

The Guardian

So far their efforts to assert control have been of little consequence.

The New York Times

A desire to assert control is a common factor among victims of eating disorders.

The New York Times - Health

Both men used a fiscal crisis to assert control over city government.

The New York Times - Magazine

To assert control, the Russians began resettling the region with ethnic Russians and Cossacks.

The New Yorker

Both Elysia and Eva desperately want to inhabit and assert control of their own bodies.

The New York Times - Books

Analysts said that Mr. Tusk was determined to assert control over the armed services.

The New York Times

When the company tried to assert control, the landowners lost out, and vice versa.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "assert control" when you want to emphasize a deliberate and decisive act of taking command or authority in a situation.

Common error

Avoid using "assert control" in situations where control is already established or expected. The phrase implies a proactive effort to gain or regain command, not simply maintain it.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "assert control" is as a verb phrase, typically following a subject and expressing the action of taking or demonstrating authority. Ludwig AI identifies it as correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Science

9%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "assert control" is a grammatically correct and frequently used verb phrase that signifies the act of taking command or demonstrating authority. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread use. Analysis of numerous examples reveals its prevalence in news and media, science, and general contexts. When writing, remember that "assert control" is best used to describe a proactive effort to gain or regain command, not simply maintain it. Consider alternatives like "take command" or "establish dominance" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

establish control

Emphasizes setting up a system or process for maintaining control.

take command

Emphasizes the act of assuming authority, often in a leadership role.

exercise control

Focuses on the practical application of having control over something.

establish dominance

Highlights the creation of a superior position or influence.

exert authority

Focuses on the active use of one's power or right to control.

gain control

Emphasizes the process of obtaining control, often gradually.

seize power

Implies a forceful or sudden acquisition of control.

take charge

Suggests assuming responsibility and directing actions.

impose authority

Suggests a more forceful or dictatorial approach to control.

wrest control

Implies taking control away from someone else, often after a struggle.

FAQs

How can I use "assert control" in a sentence?

You can use "assert control" to describe taking command or exerting authority, as in "The new manager had to "assert control" over the team quickly".

What is a synonym for "assert control"?

Alternatives to "assert control" include "take command", "establish dominance", or "exert authority".

What does it mean to "assert control"?

To "assert control" means to take a firm and decisive action to gain or demonstrate authority or command over something or someone.

Is it better to "assert control" or "establish control"?

Both "assert control" and "establish control" are correct, but they have slightly different nuances. "Assert control" implies taking immediate action, while "establish control" suggests setting up a system or process for maintaining control over time.