at my command

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at my command" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is used to indicate that someone or something is under the control or direction of the speaker. Example: "With a simple snap of my fingers, the dancers moved at my command, perfectly in sync with the music."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

The windows zoom in and out on parts of the city at my command.

The New Yorker

I condemn all those practices with the greatest vehemence at my command.

The Guardian - Opinion

'The world changes at my command,' is how he puts it".

The Guardian - Music

The romancer is a necromancer: "Graves at my command / Have waked their sleepers, oped, and let 'em forth / By my so potent art".

The New Yorker

The monkeys in the book are also really funny and I would like my own trained pet monkey who would fetch me books at my command.

The Guardian

Virginia's governor, Thomas B. Stanley, spoke for much of his region when he pledged to use "every legal means at my command to continue segregated schools".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

Showing no irritation at my rusty command of his language, he rolled his own cigarettes and lit mine, drank espressos and conjured castles of theory in the air, offering every formulation with a twinkle, exuding an irrepressible joie de penser.

The Guardian

Mornings are not complete without my command, issued at varying volume according to the time: "Walk.

The New York Times

On the evening of the 20th ultimo my command was mostly at or near Centreville.

The New York Times

Standing on a tower, world at my command/ You just keep a-turning, while I'm playing in the band/ If a man among you, got no sin upon his hand/ Let him cast a stone at me for playing in the band".

The Guardian - Music

At one instant my commanding faculty judges (rightly) that this pigeon is not dangerous, but an instant later assents to the impression that it is and from this assent flows the excessive impulse away from the pigeon which is my fear.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "at my command", ensure the context clearly establishes the source and scope of your authority. The phrase is most effective when the power dynamic is evident and the command is realistically enforceable.

Common error

Avoid using "at my command" when the authority is implied or non-existent. Overusing the phrase in situations where actual control is limited can undermine your credibility and make you sound presumptuous.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at my command" functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a verb or noun, indicating the source of control or authority. It typically specifies that something is available or acting under someone's orders, as seen in Ludwig examples where actions are performed "at my command".

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Wiki

12%

Science

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "at my command" is a grammatically sound prepositional phrase used to indicate that something is under one's control or authority. While Ludwig AI indicates that it is correct and usable in writing, its frequency is uncommon, primarily appearing in News & Media contexts. It's important to use the phrase judiciously, ensuring the context clearly establishes the source of authority and avoiding overuse in situations where the control is implied or nonexistent. Related phrases like "under my control" or "subject to my authority" can provide alternative ways to express similar ideas.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

under my control

Focuses on the state of being controlled rather than the act of commanding.

subject to my authority

Emphasizes the hierarchical relationship and the legitimacy of the control.

at my disposal

Highlights the availability and readiness for use, implying control through access.

by my decree

Suggests a formal and authoritative pronouncement that enforces control.

as I dictate

Implies a detailed and prescriptive level of control.

under my jurisdiction

Refers to legal or administrative control within a specific area or domain.

governed by my will

Emphasizes personal desire and intent as the driving force behind the control.

on my terms

Highlights the conditions and stipulations under which control is exercised.

at my bidding

Suggests that actions are carried out in response to a request or order.

in accordance with my wishes

Focuses on alignment with personal preferences rather than direct commands.

FAQs

What does "at my command" mean?

The phrase "at my command" means under my control or direction; ready to act according to my orders.

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

You can use "at my command" to indicate that someone or something is under your direct control. For instance, "I have a trained pet monkey who would fetch me books "at my command"."

Are there any synonyms for "at my command"?

Yes, alternatives include "under my control", "subject to my authority", or "at my disposal", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "at my command" in formal writing?

Yes, it is acceptable in formal writing, especially when describing a clear hierarchical structure or a situation involving direct authority. However, be mindful of the tone and context to ensure it doesn't sound overly assertive.