command a view

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "command a view" is correct and can be used in written English.
It means to have a clear and expansive view from a particular location or position. This phrase is often used to describe a desirable feature of a property or a scenic location. Example: The balcony of our hotel room commands a breathtaking view of the entire city.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

The monster of gables and shingles used to command a view of the town pond, from an estate twice its present size, full of towering beeches and cryptomeria.

The New York Times

Parish headquarters have temporarily decamped to the 11th floor of Trinity's building at 100 Avenue of the Americas, once occupied by the Warwick Baker O'Neill advertising agency, where windows command a view of the ruptured skyline.

The New York Times

The clementines sit on a tray nearby, along with a copy of the 2004 Zagat guide, on an ottoman between two comfortable armchairs that command a view of the Manhattan skyline.

The New York Times - Magazine

Each senior scientist had a study set at an angle to the courtyard, so as to command a view of the sea, and slightly apart from that scientist's laboratory, as if to suggest that the act of thinking is separate from the process of conducting scientific experiments.

The New Yorker

This is the kind of place where people want to look their best as they down stylish and pricey drinks, preferably in one of the six large booths that command a view of the door and the main part of the bar itself.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

From the window at which he sat, he commanded a view of several miles in the direction of East IIford.

The New Yorker

The best views are from the bridge and along the level 1 walkway, commanding a view of the deck below.

The Guardian - Arts

The fields are felt and the taps don't work and the perfect little cabin commands a view of tarpaulin.

The Guardian - Books

Promenades are located in resort towns and in parks and are public avenues landscaped in a pleasing manner or commanding a view.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Blending modern and traditional architecture, the city commands a view of the Gulf of Oman and serves as a port and commercial centre.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Government troops requisitioned empty apartments that commanded a view over the neighborhood, said the wife in the family, speaking anonymously out of fear of repercussions.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a location, use "command a view" to emphasize the advantageous and visually dominant position it holds.

Common error

Avoid using "command a view" in contexts that don't involve visual perception. It's incorrect to say a speaker "commands a view" in the sense of commanding attention; stick to visual perspectives.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "command a view" functions as a descriptive verbal phrase. It typically modifies a noun (e.g., building, location) to indicate that the noun offers a prominent or advantageous visual perspective. As seen in Ludwig's examples, it is commonly used to highlight desirable features of properties or scenic locations.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

20%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Science

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "command a view" is a grammatically correct and useful expression to describe a location that offers a prominent or advantageous visual perspective. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides numerous examples from reputable sources. While its frequency is uncommon, it is most often found in news, encyclopedias, and academic writing. When using the phrase, make sure the context involves visual perception and aim to emphasize the visual dominance and attractiveness of the location. Alternatives such as "offer a view" or "overlook" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

overlook

A shorter, more direct way to say "command a view", implying a higher vantage point.

offer a view

Changes the verb to emphasize providing a view, rather than dominating it.

afford a view

Replaces "command" with "afford", suggesting the view is a benefit or feature.

provide a vista

Substitutes "view" with "vista", indicating a more extensive and impressive scene.

dominate the scenery

Focuses on the visual impact and prominence of what is being viewed.

have a vantage point

Indicates a position offering a strategic or superior view.

present a panorama

Emphasizes the broad and comprehensive nature of the view.

afford a panorama

Similar to "provide a vista", this conveys a broad and expansive visual range.

give a perspective on

Highlights the ability to see and understand something from a particular position.

have a prospect of

Suggests a view with future potential or possibility.

FAQs

How can I use "command a view" in a sentence?

Use "command a view" to describe a location that offers a broad or impressive visual perspective. For example: "The mountaintop cabin commands a stunning view of the valley below."

What can I say instead of "command a view"?

You can use alternatives like "offer a view", "overlook", or "afford a view" depending on the context.

What does it mean to say something "commands a view"?

To say something "commands a view" means it is situated in a location that provides a clear and often impressive visual perspective of the surrounding area.

Is it appropriate to use "command a view" in formal writing?

Yes, "command a view" is appropriate for formal writing. It is often used in descriptive passages in literature, real estate descriptions, and travel writing.