exert some control

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "exert some control" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the act of influencing or managing a situation, person, or group. Example: "In order to ensure the project stays on track, the manager must exert some control over the team's activities."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Why didn't he exert some control over his cast?

The New York Times

Koolhaas added, "China might choose to exert some control over content for its internal political stability".

The New Yorker

For a time, even after cameras started zooming, states could exert some control over civil reconnaissance from space.

The New York Times

The key advantage of incentives is that, unlike other management levers, they can actually exert some control.

The Guardian

And perhaps the most important ingredient of all is something over which you feel that you can exert some control.

The Guardian

Pakistan helped create the Taliban in the 1990s to try to exert some control over Afghanistan.

The Economist

On the other hand, if it was allowed to merge, the government could exert some control through a consent decree.

The New York Times

Gove's presence at this previously politician-free gathering is being seen as a signal that ministers want to start to exert some control and reform the civil service.

The Guardian

As Maricopa grew, a coalition of farmers and newcomers decided that they wanted to try to exert some control over the town's expansion.

The New York Times

"The reason Karzai accepted Cameron's invitation was that he thought the prime minister would attempt to exert some control over their errant child, Pakistan".

The Guardian

The scene, with original music by Valentina González, went through several stages (they talk as well as dance), and at times the situation was reversed: she started to invade his privacy and to try to exert some control over him.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "exert some control" when you want to emphasize active and intentional efforts to manage or direct a situation.

Common error

Be mindful of overstating the level of influence. Using "exert total control" might be inaccurate and come across as overly forceful if the situation only warrants partial management.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exert some control" functions as a verb phrase where 'exert' is the main verb, and 'some control' acts as the object. It expresses the action of exercising or applying control in a particular context. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Science

19%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "exert some control" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression signifying the act of applying influence or management, according to Ludwig. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it serves the purpose of describing attempts to direct or regulate situations. While generally neutral in register, its formality can shift depending on the specific context. When considering using "exert some control", it's crucial to assess the appropriate level of influence to be conveyed, ensuring that the degree of control aligns with the situation at hand. Alternative phrases such as "exercise some influence" or "take charge" may offer more nuanced expressions, as discussed by Ludwig.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exercise some influence

This alternative replaces "control" with "influence", suggesting a more subtle form of guidance.

take command

This phrase implies assuming a position of authority and direction.

take the reins

This alternative implies taking over control or leadership of something.

impose order

Here, the focus is on creating a structured and managed environment.

wield power

This phrase suggests using authority or influence to manage a situation.

establish dominance

This option emphasizes the act of gaining a superior position.

pull the strings

This idiom means to be in control of a situation, often secretly.

gain mastery

This alternative highlights achieving a high level of skill or control.

call the shots

This informal phrase suggests being in charge and making decisions.

bring to heel

This alternative means to bring someone under control or make them obedient.

FAQs

How can I use "exert some control" in a sentence?

You can use "exert some control" to describe actions taken to manage or influence a situation. For example, "The government tried to exert some control over the economy through new regulations."

What's the difference between "exert some control" and "exercise some influence"?

"Exert some control" implies a more direct and potentially forceful action to manage something, while "exercise some influence" suggests a more subtle and persuasive approach.

What are some alternatives to "exert some control"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "take charge", "manage", or "govern" instead of "exert some control".

When is it appropriate to use "exert some control" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "exert some control" when describing actions taken to manage or direct a situation, particularly when active and intentional effort is involved. However, always consider the potential implications of forcefully taking charge.