establish control

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "establish control" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in contexts where someone is taking charge or asserting authority over a situation or group. Example: "The manager's goal was to establish control over the project to ensure its success."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

50 human-written examples

The state is commandeering every resource to establish control over the country.

The Guardian - Opinion

In Libya, Isis managed to establish control over significant coastal towns in early 2015.

The Guardian

After acquiring Yukos, he sent his enforcers to establish control of the extraction companies.

The New Yorker

Jackson kicked the conversion and with Saints conceding penalties Saracens began to establish control.

The Guardian - Sport

The coalition also helped the forces establish control of two nearby dams.

The New York Times

Mr Brown was quick to establish control at No 10 yesterday.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

10 human-written examples

But those officials say that, in the end, if the Serbian authorities want to re-establish control, they may have to use force and make arrests.

The New York Times

He said that if Gaddafi was able to push back the rebels and re-establish control, the future for the country would be bleak.

The Guardian

But Louisville used a 12-2 run to re-establish control and take a 49-36 lead with about 13 minutes 30 seconds left in the game.

The New York Times - Sports

In a last-ditch effort to re-establish control and respect, Mr. Sadr issued an order halting all Mahdi Army activity in August.

The New York Times

By planting the Russian flag in Grozny, the Russian military will re-establish control over the scene of some of its greatest humiliations during the 1994-1996 war.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about a process, clearly define the steps taken to "establish control" to enhance clarity.

Common error

Avoid implying absolute control when the context suggests partial or limited influence. Qualify the degree of control to maintain accuracy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "establish control" functions primarily as a verb phrase, where 'establish' is the verb and 'control' is the noun acting as the object. This signifies the action of bringing something under one's command or authority. Ludwig provides numerous examples showcasing its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "establish control" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe the act of gaining authority or dominance over something. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and provides numerous examples from reliable sources across various fields, including news, encyclopedias, and science. The phrase carries a neutral to formal tone and is widely used in professional and academic settings. Alternatives like "take charge" or "assert dominance" can be used depending on the specific context. It's important to use this phrase accurately, avoiding overstatements of control and ensuring that the context supports the level of influence implied.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

take charge

Suggests stepping up to manage or direct a situation.

effect control

Highlights the action of causing control to come into effect.

assert dominance

Focuses on the act of forcefully gaining power or influence.

secure power

Focuses on obtaining and solidifying a position of influence.

gain command

Emphasizes the acquisition of authority over a specific area or group.

exert influence

Emphasizes the active application of power to achieve an effect.

seize authority

Highlights a sudden and forceful taking of power.

wield authority

Implies possessing and using power effectively.

assume leadership

Implies taking on a role of guidance and direction.

institute governance

Focuses on setting up a system of rules and management.

FAQs

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

You can use "establish control" to describe the act of gaining authority or dominance over something. For example: "The government is trying to "establish control" over the region."

What are some alternatives to "establish control"?

Alternatives include "gain authority", "take charge", or "assert dominance", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "establish control" or "gain control"?

Both "establish control" and "gain control" are correct. "Establish control" implies setting up a system or asserting authority, while "gain control" simply means acquiring control.

What does it mean to "re-establish control"?

"Re-establish control" means to regain control after having lost it. For example, "The company is working to "re-establish control" over its market share after a period of decline."