at her command

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at her command" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that someone is in a position to give orders or that someone is ready to follow the instructions of another person. Example: "The soldiers stood ready at her command, prepared to execute the mission as soon as she gave the signal."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

Saumya, a banker, has many quick dishes at her command.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The entire English language was at her command, and her grip on it never failed.

The New York Times

They were puppets, at her command; so too are her characters.

The New Yorker

She asked him to hold her horse, and he was at her command thereafter.

The New York Times

"Armida," a company premiere, stars Renée Fleming as a lovelorn Saracen sorceress with legions of demons at her command.

The New York Times - Arts

She also interrogates suspects, sometimes violently (a man slaps a suspect at her command), until the political climate abruptly changes.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

Yet while her acolytes are articulate, and some hint at her narrative command, most merely echo her music, availing themselves of her cascading guitar lines, thwacking backbeats and yearning vocals.

The New York Times - Arts

But blushing she is, suddenly color-keyed to the rouge poinsettia on the windowsill at her Third Avenue command post, which hovers over the East River like a platform diving board.

The New York Times

Gertrude tosses her wealth around like confetti at New Year's Eve and makes Howard jump at her every command.

Huffington Post

And Roman! Roman just jumps at her every command... he can't seem to make a decision without her.

Huffington Post

At the same time, her command of the higher education landscape and the data generated at Ucas gives universities much-needed and widely felt confidence".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "at her command" to clearly indicate that someone or something is directly controlled by a woman and acts according to her orders or wishes. It emphasizes her authority and influence.

Common error

Avoid using "at her command" when referring to general influence or inspiration. This phrase implies direct control and immediate obedience, not just general impact or motivation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at her command" functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a verb or noun. It indicates the presence of control and authority exerted by a female figure, as supported by Ludwig's examples showcasing varied real-world applications.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Encyclopedias

8%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Science

16%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "at her command" is a grammatically correct and frequently used prepositional phrase indicating a woman's direct authority and control. Ludwig AI confirms its broad applicability across various registers, from news and media to encyclopedic and scientific contexts. When using the phrase, be mindful of its emphasis on direct control rather than general influence. Alternatives like "under her control" or "at her disposal" may be more appropriate depending on the nuance you wish to convey. As evidenced by the example sentences from Ludwig, this phrase is a powerful way to highlight female authority and the execution of orders.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

under her control

This phrase focuses on the aspect of being managed or directed by her.

under her authority

This highlights the legitimacy of her power and the right to give commands.

subject to her orders

This alternative emphasizes the obligatory nature of following her directives.

acting on her instructions

This focuses on the direct action taken based on her specific guidance.

at her disposal

This suggests availability for her to use as she sees fit, not necessarily direct commands.

at her beck and call

This implies immediate and eager responsiveness to her needs.

obeying her instructions

This alternative focuses on the action of following what she says.

responsive to her direction

This phrase stresses the adaptability and prompt reaction to her guidance.

following her lead

This suggests guidance and direction, not necessarily strict commands.

in accordance with her wishes

This emphasizes fulfilling her desires, which may not be explicit commands.

FAQs

How can I use "at her command" in a sentence?

You can use "at her command" to describe someone or something acting under a woman's direct control. For example: "The army was "at her command", ready to defend the kingdom."

What are some alternatives to "at her command"?

Some alternatives include "under her control", "subject to her orders", or "at her disposal", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "at her command" in a formal setting?

Yes, "at her command" is appropriate in formal settings when you want to emphasize a woman's direct authority and control over a situation or individuals. It carries a tone of formality and seriousness.

What's the difference between "at her command" and "at her request"?

"At her command" implies direct authority and an obligation to obey, while "at her request" suggests a polite asking or suggestion that may or may not be followed.