assert control over

USAGE SUMMARY

"assert control over" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to express that a certain person or group has taken authority or power over a particular situation. For example, "The new CEO asserted control over the company's finances to make sure everything was properly managed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

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

The New York Times

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

The New York Times - Magazine

Stop the blaming and the resentment and assert control over what you can.

Harvard Business Review

They argued it would also help the weak Lebanese government assert control over the entire country.

The New York Times

China's efforts to assert control over the South China Sea has heightened military tensions.

The Washington Post

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

The New York Times

Japan and the US believe the zone is an attempt by China to assert control over the islands.

The Guardian

Some of Khan's political opponents doubt both his capacity to assert control over the military and his intentions.

The New Yorker

Ventspils' situation appears to be part of a larger effort by Russia to assert control over its oil routes.

The New York Times

An eagerness to assert control over the police and intelligence services is often a sign of trouble ahead.

The New Yorker

Last week, the president tried to assert control over two American-backed Afghan anticorruption units that are investigating Afghan officials.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "assert control over" when you want to emphasize a deliberate and forceful action to gain authority or dominance in a specific situation.

Common error

Avoid using "assert control over" when the context implies a gradual or unintentional influence. This phrase is best suited for scenarios where a clear and decisive action is taken to establish authority.

Linguistic Context

Assert control over functions as a verb phrase that describes the act of taking or establishing authority or dominance over something. Ludwig examples confirm its use in describing deliberate actions to gain power in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Academia

14%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Science

4%

Encyclopedias

1%

Formal & Business

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "assert control over" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe the act of taking or establishing authority, as validated by Ludwig AI. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it conveys a deliberate and forceful action. While alternatives like "take command of" and "exercise authority over" exist, it's important to reserve this phrase for scenarios involving a clear and decisive establishment of power. Remembering this nuance will enhance the precision and impact of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exercise authority over

This alternative focuses on the active use of existing power.

take charge of

This alternative suggests assuming responsibility and leadership.

take command of

This alternative suggests a more immediate and direct assumption of authority.

establish dominance over

This alternative emphasizes the establishment of a superior position.

gain command of

This alternative suggests acquiring control, often through effort or strategy.

wield power over

This alternative suggests using significant influence or control.

seize authority over

This alternative implies a forceful or sudden acquisition of power.

establish a grip on

This alternative emphasizes a firm and secure hold on something.

exert influence on

This alternative indicates using one's position to affect something.

dominate

A single word alternative implying control.

FAQs

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

You can use "assert control over" to describe a person or entity taking decisive action to gain authority. For instance, "The government sought to assert control over the disputed territory."

What are some alternatives to "assert control over"?

Alternatives include "take command of", "exercise authority over", or "dominate" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to say "assert control on" versus "assert control over"?

"Assert control over" is the correct and idiomatic phrasing. "Assert control on" is grammatically incorrect and not commonly used.

What is the difference between "assert control over" and "maintain control over"?

"Assert control over" implies the initial act of gaining authority, while "maintain control over" indicates the continuous effort to retain existing authority.