command of ideas

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "command of ideas" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone's ability to understand, articulate, and manipulate concepts or thoughts effectively. Example: "Her command of ideas during the debate showcased her deep understanding of the subject matter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

He crafted every aspect of his camera persona, from the cool self-confidence he exuded in still images to the urbane speaking style and command of ideas that were the hallmarks of his television appearances.

The New York Times

Her teaching career, beginning in 1959 as a visiting lecturer at Reading University, where she remained until gaining a lectureship at the Courtauld in 1964, was distinguished by the lucidity and command of ideas that marked her writing as well.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

The lean silhouette left an impression, like a dashed-off line on an illustrator's page, but Mr. Anderson didn't seem in command of an idea beyond that.

The New York Times

And the consequence is a coming-of-age tale of uncommon sweetness and feeling that does not always seem in total command of the difficult ideas it grapples with.

The New Yorker

But Mr. Holt does have the policy wonk's command of facts and ideas that give his talks the encyclopedic weight that many voters -- especially highly educated ones -- prefer.

The New York Times

A third category of ideas commands assent, but no action.

The Economist

Sometimes, in moments of public privacy, you can feel your mind in command of itself, like William James's idea of the unified consciousness, ably turning away unwanted stimuli that "show their faces at the door," until "the actual possessors" of your thoughts grow "tired".

The New York Times - Magazine

"What strikes me is that he is someone who really does command respect in the industry, a man of ideas, and a man of real experience".

The Guardian

Even a casual observer would probably have the sense that he is in command of his thoughts, that the ideas come to him clearly and that as a matter of integrity he strives to make clothes that look contemporary.

The New York Times

But the idea is to get command of all the pitches".

The New York Times - Sports

You're supposed to leave university with the knowledge that dropping another pill at sunrise isn't a good idea, not an obsessive command of Sopranos trivia.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's intellectual capabilities, use "command of ideas" to emphasize their ability to not only understand but also effectively articulate and utilize complex concepts.

Common error

Avoid using "command of ideas" in contexts where simpler phrases like "understanding" or "knowledge" would suffice. The phrase is best suited for situations involving complex reasoning and articulation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "command of ideas" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as an object or complement to describe someone's intellectual capacity. It indicates a person's ability to understand, articulate, and manipulate complex concepts. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is a correct and usable English phrase.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "command of ideas" is a grammatically correct and usable noun phrase that describes someone's ability to understand, articulate, and utilize complex concepts. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. While it is not a very common phrase, it is best suited for contexts where you want to emphasize intellectual proficiency. Consider alternatives like "grasp of concepts" or "mastery of concepts" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. The phrase is predominantly found in news and media sources and is best used in neutral to formal writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

mastery of concepts

Emphasizes a high level of expertise and control over concepts.

conceptual mastery

Synonymous with mastery of concepts but gives a conceptual tone.

grasp of concepts

Focuses on understanding and comprehension rather than active control or expression.

intellectual grasp

Synonymous with grasp of concepts but gives an intellectual tone.

intellectual proficiency

Highlights competence and skill in intellectual matters.

conceptual expertise

Highlights specialized knowledge and skill in a particular field of concepts.

conceptual understanding

Stresses the comprehension of underlying principles and frameworks.

adeptness at ideas

Focuses on skill and proficiency in working with ideas.

cognitive command

Implies control over cognitive processes and thoughts.

intellectual acumen

Emphasizes sharpness and insight in intellectual matters.

FAQs

How can I use "command of ideas" in a sentence?

You can use "command of ideas" to describe someone's ability to understand and articulate complex concepts effectively. For example, "Her command of ideas was evident in her eloquent presentation."

What are some alternatives to "command of ideas"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "grasp of concepts", "mastery of concepts", or "intellectual proficiency".

Is "command on ideas" grammatically correct?

No, the correct preposition to use with "command" in this context is "of". Therefore, "command of ideas" is the grammatically correct phrase.

What does it mean to have a "command of ideas"?

To have a "command of ideas" means possessing a strong understanding and ability to articulate and utilize complex concepts effectively. It implies both comprehension and the skill to communicate those ideas clearly.