does not command

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "does not command" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where something lacks authority or control over others. Example: "The new policy does not command the respect of the employees, leading to confusion and dissatisfaction."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Comity persuades; but it does not command.

Cornell University

The Nigerian state does not command loyalty or service.

The Economist

That idea does not command much mainstream support.

The Guardian

That idea does not command much mainstream support.

The Guardian

He does not command a simple voters' majority either in Budapest or nationwide.

The Guardian

Holdsworth says: "Cricket does not command the same level of audience [as other sports].

The Guardian

To win, Mrs. Gandhi needs a two‐third majority, which her own party does not command.

The New York Times

"We cannot have an outcome for MPs which does not command public confidence.

The Guardian

General Wiranto has many supporters in the military but does not command any troops.

The New York Times

His son and presumed heir, Crown Prince Vajiralongkorn, does not command his father's popular support.

The New York Times

At 80 he does not command quite the same range of touch heard on those recordings.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "does not command", ensure that the subject and object are clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify what entity "does not command" what type of authority or resource.

Common error

Avoid using "does not command" when a weaker term like "does not request" or "does not suggest" is more appropriate. "Command" implies a higher level of authority than simply asking or suggesting.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "does not command" primarily functions as a verbal phrase indicating a lack of authority, control, or influence. As Ludwig AI suggests, it's used to express that someone or something does not hold sway or have the power to direct or control others. This is evident in examples where political figures, policies, or entities are described as not having authority.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Science

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "does not command" is a common and grammatically correct way to express a lack of authority, control, or influence. Ludwig AI indicates that it is often used to describe situations where someone or something fails to hold sway or exert power. Its use is most prevalent in news and media contexts, with a neutral register that suits objective reporting and analysis. Remember to clearly define the subject and object when using this phrase, and to use it when a true absence of authority is intended. Consider alternatives like "lacks authority" or "does not control" for subtle variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

does not control

Focuses on the inability to manage or direct something.

has no power over

Highlights the absence of influence or control over a person or thing.

does not carry authority

Highlights the absence of recognized power or influence.

lacks authority

Emphasizes the absence of legitimate power or control.

is not in charge of

Indicates a lack of responsibility or leadership.

is not able to enforce

Focuses on the inability to compel obedience or compliance.

does not dominate

Suggests an absence of prevailing influence or superiority.

fails to lead

Highlights the inability to guide or direct effectively.

is not obeyed by

Focuses on the lack of compliance or adherence to instructions.

carries no weight with

Suggests that someone's opinion or position is not influential.

FAQs

How can I use "does not command" in a sentence?

You can use "does not command" to indicate a lack of authority or control. For instance, "The new manager "does not command" the respect of the team", suggests the manager lacks authority.

What are some alternatives to "does not command"?

Alternatives include "lacks authority", "does not control", or "has no power over", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "does not command" or "lacks command"?

Both are grammatically correct, but ""does not command"" is often used to describe a current state, while "lacks command" may describe an inherent quality or characteristic.

What's the difference between "does not command" and "does not require"?

"Does not command" implies a lack of authority or control, whereas "does not require" means something is not necessary or obligatory. For example, "The general does not command troops" versus "The task does not require special tools".