gain control of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gain control of" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used when attempting to take command or authority of a situation, usually with the intent of changing an undesirable outcome or improving a current one. For example, "The company is attempting to gain control of the market by introducing a new product line."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They are lobbying to gain control of the banks.

The New York Times

Britain and France did not gain control of the canal.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

He began precisely to gain control of those places.

Yale University

Meanwhile, other conspirators tried to gain control of the government.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Inside Room 252, meanwhile, Miles saw a chance to gain control of the situation.

The New York Times - Sports

They hoped to use Joseph's momentary fright to gain control of the entire mansion.

The Guardian - Books

The deal is a departure for TPG, which typically seeks to gain control of companies.

The New York Times

Mr. Icahn first tried to gain control of the companies in the mid-1990s.

The New York Times

Hopefully, should Labour gain control of the council, we can have a look at it again".

The Guardian

Investment group Fosun International paid £45m to gain control of Wolverhampton Wanderers.

The Guardian - Business

It is not unlawful for a company to gain control of a market.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "gain control of" when you want to emphasize the process of obtaining control, rather than simply having it.

Common error

Overusing "gain control of" can make your writing sound verbose. Consider using simpler verbs like "control", "manage", or "dominate" when appropriate to improve clarity and conciseness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gain control of" functions as a verb phrase. It typically introduces a process or action aimed at acquiring authority, dominance, or influence over something or someone. Ludwig examples show its consistent use in describing efforts to assume command or mastery.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Science

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "gain control of" is a versatile and commonly used verb phrase that signifies the process of acquiring authority or influence. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and appropriate for use in written English. The phrase sees frequent use in news and media, wiki, and business contexts, but should be used discerningly, with simpler verbs offering greater concision in certain scenarios. When seeking alternatives, phrases like "seize command of" or "take charge of" can offer nuanced substitutions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

take charge of

Suggests assuming responsibility and direction.

wrest control from

Implies a struggle to take control away from someone else.

seize command of

Implies a sudden and forceful acquisition of control.

assume power over

Focuses on the act of taking on a position of control or influence.

assert authority over

Emphasizes the act of declaring and enforcing one's power.

acquire influence over

Focuses on gaining sway or persuasive power.

secure mastery of

Suggests achieving a high level of skill or expertise.

establish dominance over

Highlights the act of creating a superior position of power.

dominate

A shorter, more forceful synonym implying complete control.

subjugate

Suggests bringing someone or something under control by conquest.

FAQs

How can I use "gain control of" in a sentence?

"Gain control of" is used to describe the process of acquiring authority or influence. For example: "The company is trying to "gain control of" the market share."

What are some alternatives to "gain control of"?

You can use alternatives such as "seize command of", "take charge of", or "acquire influence over" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "gain control over" or "gain control of"?

"Gain control of" is the more common and natural phrasing. While "gain control over" isn't grammatically incorrect, it's less frequently used.

What's the difference between "gaining control of" and "having control of"?

"Gaining control of" refers to the process of acquiring control, while "having control of" describes the state of already possessing control. For example, one might say, "They are "gaining control of" the situation" versus "They "have control of" the situation".