gaining control

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gaining control" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone is taking charge of a situation or managing something effectively. Example: "After several weeks of training, the team is finally gaining control over the project timeline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Will Barbara succeed in gaining control of the younger woman?

The New Yorker

Do the Democrats have a chance of gaining control of one or both houses of Congress?

The New Yorker

In that way, Liberty would avoid taxes while gaining control of a cash-generating business.

The New York Times

Everton responded by gaining control of possession, but failed to pose any attacking threat.

The Guardian - Sport

But since gaining control of Congress last year, Democrats have become more outspoken.

The New York Times

Icahn eventually succeeded in gaining control of the Trump Taj Mahal casino.

The New Yorker

By 3am the next day, the exhausted firemen were gaining control.

The Guardian

The idea is that by gaining control of your destiny, you foster complete commercial independence.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Arung Palakka, meanwhile, became the ruler of Bone, gaining control over most of southern Celebes.

Britannica

But Republicans still suffer from more ideological dissension even after gaining control of Washington.

The New York Times

Republicans picked up 675 state legislative seats, gaining control of 12 more state legislatures.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "gaining control", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being controlled and the method or process by which control is being achieved. For instance, specify whether you are "gaining control of the project timeline" or "gaining control over one's emotions".

Common error

Avoid using "gaining control" when the situation only involves partial influence or minor improvements. Accurately represent the extent of control being achieved to avoid misleading readers.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gaining control" functions as a gerund phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. As supported by Ludwig, it describes the process of acquiring or increasing influence, authority, or mastery over something. Its usage is dynamic, highlighting a transition or ongoing effort.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

15%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Science

5%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "gaining control" is a grammatically correct and very common gerund phrase used to describe the process of acquiring or increasing influence or authority. According to Ludwig, this phrase is suitable for a wide range of contexts, from neutral news reports to more formal academic papers. The phrase frequently appears in News & Media, Academia, and Encyclopedias. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is used to indicate actions taken to improve a situation or achieve a specific goal. When using this phrase, ensure you accurately represent the degree of control being achieved and clearly indicate what is being controlled.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

achieving dominance

Emphasizes the attainment of a superior or commanding position.

asserting dominance

Emphasizes a firm and confident declaration of control.

establishing authority

Focuses on the process of creating and asserting one's power or right to control.

assuming command

Highlights the act of taking charge or leadership.

obtaining influence

Highlights the acquisition of power to affect decisions or actions.

acquiring command

Focuses on the act of getting control or authority.

securing mastery

Implies achieving a high level of skill or expertise, leading to control.

taking the reins

Implies assuming responsibility and control, often in a leadership context.

exerting influence

Focuses on the active application of power to achieve a specific outcome.

seizing power

Suggests a sudden or forceful acquisition of control.

FAQs

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

You can use "gaining control" to describe the process of taking charge or managing something effectively. For example, "The company is "gaining control" of its finances after restructuring".

What are some alternatives to "gaining control"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "achieving dominance", "assuming command", or "establishing authority".

Is it correct to say "gaining control over" or "gaining control of"?

Both "gaining control over" and "gaining control of" are grammatically correct, but "gaining control of" is generally more common when referring to objects or systems, while "gaining control over" is often used for abstract concepts or people.

What's the difference between "gaining control" and "losing control"?

"Gaining control" describes the process of taking charge and managing a situation effectively, while "losing control" refers to the opposite – the state of no longer being able to manage or direct a situation or one's emotions.