give a command

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "give a command" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when instructing someone to perform a specific action or task. Example: "In order to proceed with the operation, please give a command to initiate the sequence."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

If you find yourself muttering "Um, sorry... .. when your colleague makes a mistake, you get interrupted or you need to give a command – your language may be undermining you at work.

The Guardian

So after they give a command, we have to think about how to administer the dosage.

International Journal of Emergency Medicine

If a DESS cannot respond to voltage regulation needs, but the system give a command to act, the DESS maybe break down.

Protection and Control of Modern Power Systems

You could give a command to start Pandora, for instance, and then request "Play station Coldplay radio" and it will play through the car's audio system.

Forbes

When the CCD camera detects the position of ore on the grizzly the PLC will give a command signal to the motion control that is servo controller to move the boom to the required position for hammering.

Procedia Manufacturing

When the box is placed near a vertical electric wire, the magnetic fluid's free surface reaches its equilibrium profile in a time interval depending on orifice dimensions and allows the optical device to give a command signal.

Journal of Magnetism and Magnetic Materials

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

"When I gave a command, the whole of Monrovia running to implement that command," Blahyi said.

The New Yorker

He had given a command performance before Queen Victoria; he would soon give one for Teddy Roosevelt.

The New Yorker

He gave a command performance at a cocktail party in Amagansett and didn't want to stop.

The New Yorker

Finally, in February 1918, Robertson resigned as chief of the Imperial General Staff and was given a command in England.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In 1901 Leno gave a command performance for King Edward VII, becoming the first music-hall performer to be so honoured.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "give a command" in technical documentation, ensure the command is clearly defined and the expected outcome is specified. This avoids ambiguity and ensures accurate execution.

Common error

Do not use vague language when you "give a command". Ensure the instruction is specific and leaves no room for misinterpretation. Vague commands can lead to errors and inefficiencies.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "give a command" functions as a verb phrase, primarily used to describe the act of issuing an instruction or order. This aligns with Ludwig AI's assessment that the phrase is correct and usable. Examples include instructing a dog or directing a software application.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Wiki

32%

News & Media

23%

Science

19%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

11%

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "give a command" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase that effectively communicates the act of issuing an instruction. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable across various contexts, ranging from informal training scenarios to more formal settings like news reports and technical documentation. While it can be used in different registers, it's crucial to ensure the command is clear and unambiguous to prevent misinterpretations. Consider alternatives like "issue an order" or "deliver an instruction" to add nuance or formality depending on your writing needs.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

issue an order

Emphasizes the formal or authoritative nature of the instruction.

deliver an instruction

Focuses on the act of conveying specific information about what needs to be done.

pass down a directive

Suggests the command is coming from a superior or higher authority.

utter a decree

Implies a formal and powerful command, often with legal or official implications.

dictate terms

Highlights the control and imposition of conditions or actions.

relay an assignment

Focuses on the communication aspect of giving a task or duty.

present a task

Emphasizes the introduction of something to be done.

verbalize a request

Underscores the spoken aspect of asking someone to do something.

proclaim a regulation

Highlights the official announcement of a rule that must be followed.

articulate an instruction

Emphasizes the clear and precise formulation of what needs to be done.

FAQs

How can I use "give a command" in a sentence?

You can use "give a command" to instruct someone to perform an action. For example: "The general will "give a command" to advance", or "The software allows users to "give a command" via voice input".

What phrases are similar to "give a command"?

Similar phrases include "issue an order", "deliver an instruction", or "pass down a directive", which all convey the act of providing an instruction.

Is it better to "give a command" or "issue a command"?

Both "give a command" and "issue a command" are correct. "Issue a command" might sound slightly more formal, but they are largely interchangeable.

In what contexts is "give a command" most appropriate?

"Give a command" is appropriate in various contexts, including military settings, software interfaces, and training scenarios. It is suitable whenever someone needs to direct an action or operation.