gained control

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gained control" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a situation where someone has taken charge or authority over something or someone. Example: "After several months of negotiations, the company finally gained control of the market share."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Jennings gained control first.

The New York Times

He quickly gained control.

The New York Times - Sports

Barcelona gained control and conviction.

The Guardian - Sport

By then England had already gained control.

The Guardian - Sport

They gained control of one authority.

The Guardian

He gained control, and raced upcourt.

The New York Times - Sports

The United States gained control of the Panama Canal Zone.

The New York Times

I quickly gained control and began to enjoy the shoe.

The New York Times - Style

At such a moment the nose-opener has gained control.

The New York Times - Magazine

They gained control of the mad king from 1413.

Britannica

Five years later the French gained control of all Cochinchina.

Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a gradual process of taking charge, use "gained control" to indicate a progressive shift in authority or influence. For instance, "The company gradually gained control of the market through strategic acquisitions."

Common error

Avoid using "gained control" repetitively in close proximity without providing specific context. Vary your language by using synonyms like "assumed command", "established authority", or "took charge" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gained control" primarily functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of acquiring authority, power, or influence. As evidenced by Ludwig, it describes the result of a process where someone or something assumes a position of command or dominance.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Encyclopedias

15%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Science

17%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "gained control" is a versatile and frequently used verb phrase indicating the action of acquiring authority or influence, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Its grammatical correctness and widespread use across diverse contexts like news media and encyclopedias highlight its importance in describing shifts in power. While alternatives such as "seized control" or "took command" can offer nuanced meanings, it is essential to maintain contextual relevance and avoid overuse to ensure clear and engaging communication. According to Ludwig, this phrase is correct and usable in written English, particularly when describing a situation where someone has taken charge.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Seized control

Emphasizes a more forceful or abrupt acquisition of control.

Acquired dominance

Highlights the achievement of a superior position or influence.

Established authority

Focuses on the creation and validation of a controlling influence.

Took command

Suggests the assumption of a leadership role or position.

Assumed power

Implies the taking on of governmental or organizational authority.

Secured leadership

Highlights the attainment of a leading position.

Won supremacy

Emphasizes the competitive nature of achieving control.

Dominated

A shorter verb form expressing a state of control.

Got the upper hand

An idiomatic expression indicating an advantage and control over a situation.

Became dominant

Focuses on the process of achieving a dominant position.

FAQs

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

You can use "gained control" to describe the act of taking authority or influence over something. For example: "After years of hard work, she "gained control" of her own company".

What are some alternatives to the phrase "gained control"?

You can use alternatives such as "seized control", "took command", or "assumed power" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "gain control" or "gained control"?

Both are grammatically correct, but "gain control" is in the infinitive form, while ""gained control"" is in the past tense. Use "gain control" when referring to a future or habitual action and ""gained control"" when describing a past event.

What is the difference between "gained control" and "lost control"?

"Gained control" means to have taken charge or authority, while "lost control" means to have relinquished or surrendered authority. They are antonyms.