exerts complete control

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "exerts complete control" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone or something has total authority or influence over a particular matter or group. Example: "The new manager exerts complete control over the team's operations, ensuring that all tasks are executed according to her standards."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

But he has been reluctant to leave the safety of the den, where he exerts complete control.

The New Yorker

Amazon exerts complete control over the experience and it's not all bad.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

To do that, the totalitarian government attempted to exert complete control over the populace.

Encyclopedia Britannica

With the Republicans exerting complete control in Washington no screaming, please there would be the potential for a backlash come the 2018 midterms.

The New Yorker

"It is the ultimate fantasy of a writer who wants to exert complete control over the narrative of his own life".

The New York Times - Books

The companies' executives argue that mutual fund shareholders pay too much in taxes and fees to managers who exert complete control, disclose too little about what they are doing and routinely underperform the overall market.

The New York Times

Both sides took every measure to exert complete control over their messaging, yet the hiccups in the orchestration of any large spectacle were myriad and manifest in Tampa, Fla . and Charlotte N.C.

The New York Times

Johnson's political machine was financed by regular payments from the vice industry, over which he exerted complete control; every brothel madam and gambling den owner paid a cut to him.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But even with the lead Oscar gave them, Chelsea were never able to exert complete control and it was no surprise when Juventus eventually drew level via Quagliarella's cool late finish.

BBC

Unlike financing in grant form, the loans allow the regime to exert complete control over the funds.

Vice

The very fact that he was able to stay in charge for so long and exert such complete control argues against insanity, the experts said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "exerts complete control" to clearly indicate absolute authority or influence in a situation. It's particularly effective when highlighting a power dynamic or the extent of someone's dominion.

Common error

While "exerts complete control" is grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal or severe in casual conversation. Opt for milder phrases like "has a lot of influence" or "is in charge" in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exerts complete control" functions as a verb phrase with a direct object, denoting the action of exercising total authority or influence. Ludwig examples show its use in describing political regimes and organizational dynamics.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Encyclopedias

33%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "exerts complete control" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe the exercise of total authority or influence. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides examples from reputable sources like The New Yorker and Encyclopedia Britannica. While effective in emphasizing power dynamics, consider the formality and opt for milder alternatives like "holds sway over" in less formal contexts. Its primary use lies in news, media, and encyclopedic content where precision and emphasis on authority are key.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

wields absolute authority

Emphasizes the formal power and right to control.

maintains total command

Focuses on the ability to give orders and ensure obedience.

exercises full authority

Highlights the act of using one's power to govern.

has absolute dominion

Suggests a supreme level of rule and ownership.

holds sway over

Implies a strong influence and persuasive power.

governs with absolute power

Highlights the autocratic nature of the control.

dictates terms entirely

Focuses on setting and enforcing conditions without negotiation.

possesses ultimate control

Indicates the final and decisive authority.

commands absolute obedience

Stresses the compliance and submissiveness of others.

imposes complete dominance

Emphasizes the forceful nature of the control being exerted.

FAQs

What does "exerts complete control" mean?

The phrase "exerts complete control" means to exercise total authority or influence over someone or something, leaving little to no room for external factors or other's input.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "exerts complete control"?

It is appropriate to use "exerts complete control" when describing situations involving significant power dynamics, totalitarian regimes, or instances where one entity has absolute authority. Using similar phrases like "wields absolute authority" might also fit.

Are there alternative phrases to "exerts complete control" that I can use?

Yes, alternatives include "maintains total command", "exercises full authority", or "has absolute dominion", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How can I effectively use "exerts complete control" in a sentence?

To effectively use "exerts complete control", ensure the context clearly supports the idea of absolute authority. For example, "The dictator exerts complete control over all aspects of the country's governance."