exercise control over

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'exercise control over' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to talk about someone having control or power over something or someone. Example: The new supervisor has begun to exercise control over the department's budget.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But we do exercise control over how we live.

The New York Times

"It was impossible for him to exercise control over subordinates and contractors," Mr. O'Neill said.

The New York Times

They are how women exercise control over their lives and families.

The New York Times

It is the only way you can exercise control over who gets what, and how much".

The Guardian - Money

BBC Worldwide can effectively exercise control over who buys the stake.

The Guardian

He did not seem to want, and he certainly did not exercise, control over the courtroom.

The New Yorker

And the Syrian misadventure implies that Kouchner can't even exercise control over the hot spots.

The New York Times - Magazine

And how (if at all) should the government exercise control over the supply of monetary instruments?

Harvard University

Contracts are too often used merely as a way to exercise control over the workforce.

Stanford University

But it isn't unprecedented for the White House to exercise control over the EPA's climate site.

The Washington Post

They want to maintain dominance and exercise control over their female partners, among others.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, clarify the means by which someone or something "exercise control over" another entity. For example, specify whether it's through policy, influence, or direct action.

Common error

Avoid using "exercise control over" without clearly defining the scope and limitations of that control. Be specific about what aspects are being controlled and to what extent.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exercise control over" functions as a verb phrase, where "exercise" is the verb, "control" is the noun acting as the object, and "over" is a preposition indicating the target of the control. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Academia

20%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Science

7%

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "exercise control over" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression signifying the exertion of authority or influence. Ludwig AI confirms its usability across various contexts, particularly in news, academic, and formal settings. When employing this phrase, clarity is key; specify the methods and scope of control to prevent ambiguity. Related phrases, such as "exert control over" or "maintain control over", can offer nuanced alternatives depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exert control over

Similar in meaning, but "exert" emphasizes the effort or energy used to maintain control.

maintain control over

"Maintain" emphasizes the continuation of control rather than the initial act of taking control.

wield control over

"Wield" suggests a more active and potentially forceful exercise of control.

administer control over

"Administer" implies a formal or official management of control.

practice control over

"Practice" suggests repeated or habitual exercise of control.

implement control over

"Implement" focuses on putting control mechanisms or systems into effect.

establish control over

"Establish" highlights the initial creation or setup of control.

have authority over

Focuses on the right and power to control, rather than the act itself.

dominate

Implies a stronger, potentially oppressive form of control.

govern

Refers to a broader scope of control, typically over a population or territory.

FAQs

How can I use "exercise control over" in a sentence?

Use "exercise control over" to indicate someone or something exerting authority or influence. For example, "The government aims to "exercise control over" the financial sector".

What are some alternatives to "exercise control over"?

Alternatives include "exert control over", "maintain control over", or "wield authority over", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "exercise control over" or "have control over"?

"Exercise control over" implies an active application of control, while "have control over" simply indicates possession of authority. Choose the phrase that best reflects the situation you're describing.

In what contexts is "exercise control over" most appropriate?

This phrase is suitable in formal writing, business communications, and academic papers when discussing authority, influence, or management. It is less common in casual conversation.