control ourselves

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "control ourselves" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing self-regulation, restraint, or managing one's emotions or actions in various situations. Example: "In stressful situations, it's important to control ourselves and respond calmly rather than react impulsively."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Distinguishing between what's within our control (ourselves) and what isn't (everything else), and then placing our attention only on that which we can control, makes life feel a lot easier.

Huffington Post

In the end, however, it is inevitable that we will not be able to control ourselves.

Huffington Post

"We cannot control ourselves -- [regulators] have to step in and control the Street".

Huffington Post

You then added, "We cannot control ourselves".

The New York Times

"We know how to control ourselves".

The New York Times

"We can't control ourselves," Mr. Leno said.

The New York Times

Mostly we're motivated to control ourselves in public.

The New Yorker

"We're only able to control ourselves," he said.

The New York Times - Travel

"We have to learn how to control ourselves".

The New York Times

But Torre added: "We're really going to have to control ourselves.

The New York Times - Sports

We have become a culture that is greedy and self-satisfied and unable to control ourselves.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about emotional regulation, use "control ourselves" to convey the idea of managing impulses and reactions in a calm and deliberate manner.

Common error

While "control ourselves" is grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for phrases like "keep it together" or "stay calm" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "control ourselves" functions as a reflexive verb phrase, where the action of controlling is directed back to the subject. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability, indicating it's a standard way to express self-regulation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Formal & Business

12%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

1%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "control ourselves" is a grammatically correct and widely used reflexive phrase signifying self-regulation and restraint. As noted by Ludwig AI, it's appropriate for various contexts, though potentially less suitable for very informal settings. Its frequent occurrence in news media, formal documents, and scientific literature underscores its importance in conveying measured and deliberate behavior. Alternatives like ""restrain ourselves"" or ""manage our behavior"" can provide nuanced variations depending on the desired emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exercise self-control

Focuses on the act of applying restraint or discipline to one's actions or impulses.

restrain ourselves

Emphasizes holding back or preventing ourselves from acting on an impulse or desire.

manage our behavior

Highlights the act of directing and regulating one's conduct or actions.

govern our actions

Stresses the idea of directing and controlling our deeds and behaviors.

curb our impulses

Specifically addresses the act of restraining or suppressing sudden desires or urges.

discipline ourselves

Highlights training and controlling ourselves, often for improvement or to achieve a goal.

regulate our conduct

Focuses on adjusting and maintaining our behavior according to rules or standards.

temper our reactions

Suggests moderating and softening our responses to situations or stimuli.

moderate our behavior

Implies keeping our actions within reasonable limits or boundaries.

show restraint

Highlights the act of demonstrating control and moderation in our actions and words.

FAQs

How can I use "control ourselves" in a sentence?

You can use "control ourselves" to talk about managing one's behavior, impulses or emotions. For example: "In stressful situations, it is important to "control ourselves" and react calmly."

What are some alternatives to "control ourselves"?

Alternatives include "restrain ourselves", "manage our behavior", or "exercise self-control", depending on the context.

Is it always appropriate to use "control ourselves" in writing?

While grammatically correct, "control ourselves" may sound overly formal in informal contexts. Consider using more casual alternatives like "keep it together" or "stay calm" in those situations.

What is the difference between "control ourselves" and ""restrain ourselves""?

"Control ourselves" is a broader term for managing behavior, while ""restrain ourselves"" implies holding back an impulse or desire. The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.