command him

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "command him" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when giving an order or directive to someone, typically in a context where authority or control is implied. Example: "The general decided to command him to lead the troops into battle."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

But they could no longer guide, let alone command, him.

The New Yorker

— would pull Steve aside and command him to do impressions.

The New Yorker

One may marvel at the fact that Miller's editor chose not to command him to produce something more reader-friendly.

The Guardian - Books

In a moment the objects or the faces would command him to look again, paint again, catch those most fleeting manifestations of appearance, illusion, truth, life.

The Economist

At one point, a single officer seems to command him to leave before shoving him and hitting him with what appears to be a nightstick.

The New York Times

A prince, he wrote, "needs to have a spirit disposed to change as the winds of fortune and variations of things command him".

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

"Fly!" I commanded him.

The New Yorker

"Johnno!" Chib commanded him.

The New York Times - Magazine

He knew that God commanded him".

The New York Times

Unimpressed, his coach commands him to retrieve it.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Pete kidnaps Norton and commands him to disinter Melquiades.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "command him" when you want to convey a sense of authority, order, or formal instruction.

Common error

Avoid using "command him" in casual conversations or informal writing. Opt for alternatives like "tell him" or "ask him" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "command him" is that of a verb phrase. As Ludwig AI explains, this construction is grammatically correct, functioning as a transitive verb taking a direct object. The examples provided by Ludwig illustrate its usage in various contexts, primarily involving the act of giving an order or instruction.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Formal & Business

6%

Science

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "command him" is a grammatically sound verb phrase used to indicate the act of giving an order or instruction. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is generally correct and applicable in various contexts, although its formality makes it less suitable for casual conversation. Analysis of usage patterns reveals that it frequently appears in news and media, wiki, and academic sources. While "command him" effectively conveys authority and direction, writers should consider alternative phrases like "direct him" or "instruct him" to avoid overuse in informal settings. In summary, "command him" is best employed when emphasizing authority in neutral to formal contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

direct him

Emphasizes guidance and providing instructions, often in a less forceful way.

order him

Implies a stronger degree of authority and a more formal context.

instruct him

Focuses on providing specific instructions or knowledge.

give him orders

Rephrases the command as the act of giving orders to the individual.

tell him

A more general term for conveying information or instructions, lacking the inherent authority of "command".

charge him with

Suggests assigning a task or responsibility with a degree of formality.

task him with

Focuses on assigning a specific task or duty.

require him

Implies a necessity or obligation for the person to act in a certain way.

enjoin him

A more formal and somewhat archaic way of urging or ordering someone.

bid him

An older, more literary way of saying "command him".

FAQs

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

Use "command him" when describing a situation where someone is given a direct order. For example, "The captain decided to command him to scout ahead."

What are some alternatives to "command him"?

You can use alternatives like "direct him", "order him", or "instruct him" depending on the context and the level of formality.

Is "command him" appropriate for informal conversations?

While grammatically correct, "command him" carries a formal tone. In informal settings, consider using "tell him" or "ask him".

What is the difference between "command him" and "ask him"?

"Command him" implies authority and a direct order, while "ask him" suggests a request without any inherent power dynamic.