controller

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "controller" is correct and usable in written English.
Depending on context, it can mean different things. For example, you might use it to refer to a person who is in charge of managing something, for example, "The controller oversees the budgeting of the entire company". You might also use it to refer to a device used to control something, for example, "The controller is used to operate the video game".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Tech

Film

TV & Radio

World

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The Wii's popularity stems from its low price and its innovative motion-sensitive controller, which can be pointed and waved to control the on-screen action and encourages novices to give gaming a try.

The Economist

Separately, the controller of drama commissioning Ben Stephenson forked out £1,272.94 for a "development meeting" with "key drama indies" on 17 August, which 19 guests attended at a cost to the licence-fee payer of just under £70 a head.

The Guardian

Danny Cohen, the new controller of BBC1, has been showered with gifts from independent production companies since he got the job.

The Guardian

Mark Damazer is a former controller of Radio 4 and is master of St Peter's College, Oxford.

The Guardian

He cites Lisa Opie, who he says earns more than £200,000 as controller for business, knowledge and daytime but also has a cafe business.

The Guardian

"I was particularly annoyed, when we received a $5m investment, they [directors] back paid themselves these salaries and I didn't find out about this until I spoke to the financial controller".

The Guardian

She saw herself as the custodian of the government's covenant, direction, tempo and temper – its quality controller, as well as leader.

The Guardian

"It's fantastic to see millions of viewers choosing BBC1, with the top five most popular shows on Christmas Day," said the channel's controller, Charlotte Moore.

The Guardian

When Tom phoned earlier to book a taxi, the controller had asked if he was a druid – he's not, he's a stockbroker.

The Guardian - Travel

Paul Bell, a stock controller in Thorntons' toffee department, came up with the idea to celebrate the centenary and said creating it was no mean feat.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

He was one of the first major signings when the BBC's current controller of comedy Shane Allen moved over from Channel 4 three years ago.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In technical contexts, specify the type of "controller" (e.g., game controller, temperature controller) to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Don't use "controller" without sufficient context. Always clarify what is being controlled (e.g., "the temperature controller" instead of just "the controller").

Linguistic Context

The word "controller" primarily functions as a noun, denoting either a person responsible for managing or regulating something, particularly finances or operations, or a device used to control a machine or process. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

25%

Tech

15%

Less common in

Film

10%

World

10%

Science

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "controller" is versatile, serving as a noun to describe both individuals managing finances or operations and devices used for controlling machines. According to Ludwig AI, it's grammatically sound and widely used. Its meaning adapts to the context, ranging from financial oversight to technical operation. Examples from news media and business sources highlight its prevalence in professional and informational settings. When using "controller", ensure sufficient context to avoid ambiguity and clarify the specific domain of control.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

manager

Focuses more on the administrative aspects of a role involving overseeing and directing people or resources.

supervisor

Emphasizes the act of overseeing activities and ensuring tasks are performed correctly.

director

Implies a higher level of authority and responsibility in guiding the overall direction of something.

regulator

Highlights the role of setting and enforcing rules or standards.

administrator

Stresses the organizational and procedural aspects of managing something.

chief

Indicates a leadership position at the highest level.

head

A general term for someone in charge or at the top of a hierarchy.

overseer

Implies close supervision and monitoring of tasks.

handler

Focuses on the act of managing or dealing with something directly.

operator

Highlights the action of operating or manipulating a device or system.

FAQs

How can I use the word "controller" in a sentence?

You can use "controller" to refer to someone who manages finances, as in, "The company's financial controller is responsible for budgeting." Or, it can refer to a device used to operate a machine, as in, "He used the game "controller" to navigate the game".

What are some alternatives to the word "controller"?

Depending on the context, you could use "manager", "supervisor", "director", or "regulator" as alternatives to "controller".

What is the difference between a "controller" and a "supervisor"?

While both roles involve oversight, a "controller" typically has broader responsibilities, often managing entire departments or processes, while a "supervisor" usually oversees a smaller team or specific tasks.

Is it correct to use "controller" to describe a person?

Yes, "controller" can refer to a person, especially in business or governmental contexts, where it denotes someone who manages financial affairs. It can also refer to a person in charge of managing and coordinating a project or operation.