command that

USAGE SUMMARY

"command that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when giving someone a direction or order. For example, "Command that all troops advance at once!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

<Go> is a command that moves the flow of execution to an action elsewhere in the protocol.

Bioinformatics

"He's got to command that power fastball".

The New York Times - Sports

Besides Mayweather, only Manny Pacquiao would command that much.

The New York Times - Sports

The job I'm doing doesn't command that kind of salary.

The Guardian - Opinion

There is a chain of command that cannot be bypassed.

The Guardian - Opinion

This is a command that turns off the modem's speaker.

The New York Times - Tech

We don't savage on command, that is the old politics.

The Guardian

However, there is an elaborate set of guidelines and chain of command that must be followed.

Marine Policy

Here's where you discover, for example, the delightful "scratch that" command that deletes your last utterance and the "cap" command that capitalizes the next word you speak.

The New York Times - Tech

(It's a computer command that causes a processor to overload, shutting down the machine).

The New Yorker

He called on Sunni Arabs to kill Shiites, a command that has been issued before.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "command that", ensure the context clearly establishes the authority or power dynamic from which the command originates. This helps avoid ambiguity and strengthens the impact of the statement.

Common error

Avoid mismatching the subject and verb tense following "command that". Ensure the verb form aligns with the intended meaning and grammatical structure. For example, use "command that it be done" rather than "command that it is done" in formal contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "command that" primarily functions as a verb phrase introducing a subordinate clause, indicating an order or instruction. Ludwig AI's analysis and examples show its use in contexts where someone in authority directs a specific action or outcome.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

25%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "command that" is a versatile phrase used to express directives, orders, or instructions, most commonly found in news, scientific, and wiki contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, highlighting its role in conveying authority and expectation of compliance. While generally formal, its impact can be maximized by ensuring clarity in the power dynamic. Common errors, like subject-verb agreement, should be avoided to maintain grammatical accuracy. Alternatives such as "order that" or "direct that" can offer nuanced options depending on the context. The phrase's frequency and presence in authoritative sources like The New York Times underscore its relevance in both formal and general communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

order that

Similar in meaning, but emphasizes a formal directive or instruction, often from a position of authority.

mandate that

Indicates a requirement imposed by law or regulation, carrying a strong sense of obligation.

require that

Indicates a necessary condition or prerequisite, often used in formal or legal contexts.

direct that

This alternative suggests a more managerial or organizational control, focusing on guidance rather than strict orders.

instruct that

This alternative focuses on providing guidance or information on how something should be done.

decree that

Implies a formal and authoritative pronouncement, often associated with legal or governmental contexts.

ensure that

Focuses on guaranteeing a specific outcome or condition, often through proactive measures.

stipulate that

This phrase suggests a formal agreement or requirement, often used in legal or contractual settings.

prescribe that

Often used in medical or technical contexts, indicating a specific course of action or treatment.

dictate that

Suggests an absolute and often overbearing control, leaving little room for negotiation.

FAQs

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

Use "command that" to express a direct order or instruction. For example, "The general "commanded that" all troops advance." It implies authority and control.

What are some alternatives to "command that"?

Alternatives include "order that", "direct that", or "mandate that". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "command that" formal or informal?

"Command that" leans towards the formal side, particularly when indicating a strict directive. In more casual contexts, alternatives like "tell them to" might be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "command that" and "request that"?

"Command that" implies authority and a lack of choice, while "request that" suggests a polite invitation where compliance is not guaranteed. The distinction lies in the power dynamic between the speaker and the recipient.