command to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "command to" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an instruction or directive given to someone or something, often in a technical or formal context. Example: "The system received a command to initiate the backup process."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

As for the command to repair his home?

The New York Times

"They gave the command to go for refuelling.

The Guardian

On March 31, the Americans transferred command to NATO.

The New York Times

This is the command to "Change to graphic EQ".

The Guardian - Tech

Some people need to command to a sociopathic level.

The Guardian - Music

It is therefore completely misleading to characterise God's command to Israel as a command to commit genocide.

The Guardian - Opinion

There isn't one specific command to use here.

TechCrunch

We even know the AT command to do the unlock.

TechCrunch

In addition, this system can acquire, process signals, and send output or command to other systems.

Fusion Engineering and Design

At the beginning of session S l, the reader broadcasts a Start command to all tags.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

At a predefined moment, the controller sends a collection start command to all the registered devices.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "command to", ensure the context clearly establishes who is giving the command and who is receiving it to avoid ambiguity. For instance, "The general issued a command to the troops" is clearer than "There was a command to move forward."

Common error

Overusing the passive voice can make sentences with "command to" sound vague or unclear. Instead of saying "A command to halt was given", prefer the active voice: "The captain gave the command to halt."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "command to" primarily functions as a noun phrase connector, linking a noun (command) with an infinitive verb. This construction indicates an instruction or order that is to be carried out. Ludwig provides numerous examples of this usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Wiki

32%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "command to" is a versatile expression used to denote an instruction or order, as evidenced by numerous examples found through Ludwig. As Ludwig AI confirms, its grammatical structure is correct and the phrase is frequently employed across diverse contexts, including News & Media, Science and Wiki articles. While "command to" is more prevalent in formal settings, it is also used informally. For alternatives, consider "directive for" or "order to", but always consider the specific context to ensure accurate and appropriate usage. Remember to prioritize active voice constructions for clarity and avoid vagueness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

directive for

Replaces "command" with "directive", implying a formal instruction but slightly less forceful.

instruction for

Substitutes "command" with "instruction", suggesting a more educational or guidance-oriented direction.

order for

Similar to "command", but "order" can sometimes imply a stricter sense of hierarchy or authority.

mandate for

Implies a formal requirement or authorization, often from a higher authority.

charge to

Replaces "command" with "charge", suggesting a responsibility or duty assigned to someone.

task to

Emphasizes the work or assignment that needs to be carried out, making it less about authority.

assignment to

Focuses on a specific task or project that has been assigned.

briefing to

Implies providing instructions or information before a task or operation.

direction for

Suggests guidance or a course of action to be followed.

guidance to

Offers support and advice on how something should be done.

FAQs

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

The phrase "command to" is used to indicate an instruction or order given to someone. For example, "The officer issued a "command to" retreat" or "The software received a "command to" save the file."

What are some alternatives to "command to"?

You can use alternatives like "order to", "instruction for", or "directive for" depending on the context.

Is "command to" formal or informal?

The phrase "command to" tends to be more formal, often used in professional, military, or technical contexts. Simpler alternatives might be more suitable for informal situations.

How does "command to" differ from "request to"?

"Command to" implies authority and obligation, while "request to" is a polite way of asking someone to do something. A "command to" is expected to be followed, whereas a "request to" allows for refusal.