govern

USAGE SUMMARY

The word govern is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to the authority of a government over its people and resources, or when referring to the action of governing or controlling something. Example sentence: The government is responsible for the governance of the country.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But none of this can happen unless governments remember how to govern again.

The Guardian - Opinion

'Ultimately, we need to balance the various elements in a way which works, in a way which creates clear accountability between those who govern and those who are governed, which protects rights and respect for the law.' It is hard work trying to make yourself heard when you have been so comprehensively trounced after so long in office.

The Guardian

On Monday, Miliband rejected claims that a minority Labour government would have to rely on SNP support to govern, telling BBC Radio 4's Today programme he would not barter or strike deals with "a separatist party who wants to break up the country".

The Guardian

He said they were that the chief minister "seems to govern for himself" and had "lost connection" with Territorians; that the CLP government was "saturated with fake smiles", and that it failed to respond to Territorians' needs.

The Guardian

Gray only last week said Rudd was able to "get himself into the media … what he can't do is govern and what he can't do is lead the Labor party".

The Guardian

Clegg said: "A party legitimately cannot govern a whole nation – the UK – if they want to break that nation apart.

The Guardian

"The rules are very clear and they are laid out in the Cabinet Manual and that says the ability of government to command the confidence of the elected House of Commons is central to its authority to govern".

The Guardian

The London mayor said: "There is no way Miliband could conceivably govern except with the help of the SNP.

The Guardian

"You cannot make lightly changes with the parameters that govern people's savings behaviour for their retirement over many many years.

The Guardian

Unionists and the cross-community Alliance party accused nationalists of refusing to govern Northern Ireland and now claim the failure of the bill has resulted in a £600m hole in the power-sharing government's budget, which they say the UK Treasury will not be prepared to fill.

The Guardian

In traditional politics … there's such a thing as, 'This is how you campaign, but this is how you govern' Zaid Jilani In at least one instance on the campaign trail so far, Clinton's progressive messaging seemed at risk of speaking too narrowly to the core Democratic voter.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "govern", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being controlled or influenced. For instance, specify whether you are referring to a nation, an organization, or personal behavior.

Common error

A common mistake is using a singular verb form with a plural subject when "govern" is used. Ensure the verb agrees with the subject; for example, use "they govern" instead of "they governs".

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "govern" is as a verb. It describes the action of exercising sovereign authority, controlling behavior, or influencing outcomes. As Ludwig AI confirms, this word is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "govern" is a versatile verb used to describe the act of exercising authority, controlling behavior, or influencing outcomes. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and frequent use in English writing. Predominantly found in News & Media contexts, "govern" maintains a neutral register, making it suitable for various writing styles. Related phrases like "exercise authority", "administer affairs", and "control actions" offer alternative ways to express similar concepts, enhancing clarity and precision in communication. Remember to ensure correct subject-verb agreement and to clearly specify what is being governed to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exercise authority

Focuses on the act of using power or control, emphasizing the active application of authority.

administer affairs

Highlights the management and handling of public or private matters.

control actions

Emphasizes the direct influence and restraint over specific behaviors or activities.

regulate behavior

Implies the establishment and enforcement of rules to manage conduct.

exert influence

Stresses the impact and effect one has on decisions or outcomes.

manage operations

Highlights the oversight and direction of activities and processes.

steer policy

Focuses on guiding and directing the course of strategic decisions.

oversee implementation

Emphasizes the responsibility for ensuring plans are carried out effectively.

be in charge of

Indicates having responsibility and control over something or someone.

preside over

Suggests the act of leading and conducting meetings or events with authority.

FAQs

How to use "govern" in a sentence?

You can use "govern" to describe the act of ruling a country, controlling behavior, or influencing outcomes. For example: "The government is responsible for the governance of the country."

What can I say instead of "govern"?

You can use alternatives like "exercise authority", "administer affairs", or "control actions" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "govern" or "governance"?

"Govern" is a verb that means to rule or control, while "governance" is a noun that refers to the act, manner, or system of governing. For example, "The government must govern effectively" versus "Good governance is essential for economic development".

What's the difference between "govern" and "regulate"?

"Govern" implies a broader scope of control and decision-making, often associated with political authority. "Regulate" suggests the imposition of rules and standards to control specific activities or behaviors. For instance, a government might "govern" a nation, while an agency "regulates" industry practices.