Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
governs on
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "governs on" is not correct and usable in written English.
The correct expression would typically be "governs" or "governs over" depending on the context. Example: "The new policy governs the use of company resources."
⚠ May contain grammatical issues
News & Media
Science
Formal & Business
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
7 human-written examples
Whether or not Clinton campaigns and governs on this platform is anyone's guess.
News & Media
I know what the Yes camp's answer will be (that Labour sometimes governs on Celtic majorities at Westminster), but such a result will not be easy to manage.
News & Media
In this article, we have used this method to solve the heat equation, which governs on numerous scientific and engineering experimentations.
At low overpotentials, addition of Pd2+ to Fe2+ solution leads to a dramatic reduction in the number of nucleation sites, due to this fact that at such overpotentials, the electrodeposition behavior of Pd2+ governs on the overall process.
Science
In reply, Fatah – the party of the Palestinian president, Mahmoud Abbas, which governs on the West Bank – has re-edited the videos to show what it believes is the reality of almost a decade of Hamas rule, saying they will reconstruct a battered Gaza.
News & Media
Netanyahu's brand of extremism is a terrible thing for Israel, for the Middle East, and for the world, but not much different from the GOP in the U.S., which also campaigns and rules (not governs) on a platform of hate, fear, and division.
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
53 human-written examples
The Solicitor General has argued that the rule governing on-sale bar should be phrased somewhat differently.
Academia
These laws, already informally agreed with member states, will govern on-line and alternative dispute resolution respectively.
Formal & Business
How can you set up policies that put you in a position to govern on day one?"That pragmatism is reflected in his economics team.
News & Media
Johnson's policy positions are easy to find so I wanted to push on philosophical consistency on the one hand, and approach to governing on the other.
News & Media
Avoid the temptation they continually place before you -- of winning an election on one set of principles and then governing on another.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Consider synonyms like "rules", "oversees", or "administers" to replace "governs on" and provide a more precise and polished tone to your writing.
Common error
Avoid adding unnecessary prepositions after verbs. While some verbs require specific prepositions, "govern" does not typically need "on". Using "governs on" can make your writing sound awkward or incorrect.
Source & Trust
84%
Authority and reliability
2.2/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "governs on" attempts to function as a verb describing the act of ruling or controlling something based on a specific principle or platform. However, according to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically incorrect and should be avoided.
Frequent in
News & Media
60%
Science
30%
Formal & Business
10%
Less common in
Encyclopedias
0%
Wiki
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "governs on" is considered grammatically incorrect in standard English. Despite its occasional appearance in various sources, including news, science, and business, it's best to avoid using it. According to Ludwig AI, the correct form is typically just "governs" or using alternative phrases such as "rules", "oversees", or "administers". By opting for these grammatically sound alternatives, you can ensure clarity and professionalism in your writing.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
Governs
Removes the preposition "on", resulting in a grammatically correct verb. Focuses on the act of governing itself.
Rules
A more direct synonym for governs, suitable for many contexts where "governs on" might be used.
Presides over
Emphasizes the act of overseeing and directing, suitable when referring to a leader's role.
Administers
Highlights the management and execution of policies and regulations.
Oversees
Focuses on the supervisory aspect of governing, implying a broader view.
Dictates
Indicates a more authoritative and controlling style of governing.
Regulates
Highlights the establishment and enforcement of rules and standards.
Is in charge of
Uses a simpler phrase to denote authority and control.
Is at the helm of
Suggests leadership and direction, often used metaphorically.
Holds sway over
Emphasizes influence and control over a particular domain or group.
FAQs
What is the correct way to use the word "govern"?
The word "govern" typically doesn't require a preposition like "on" after it. You can simply say "The government governs the country." or "The policy governs the procedures."
What can I use instead of "governs on"?
Instead of "governs on", you can use alternatives like "governs", "rules", "oversees", or "administers" depending on the intended meaning.
Is it grammatically correct to say "governs on"?
No, "governs on" is not considered grammatically correct in standard English. The correct usage is usually just "governs".
How does "governs" differ from "governs on"?
"Governs" is the standard and grammatically correct form, meaning to rule or control. "Governs on" is generally considered an incorrect or non-standard usage. It's best to avoid using "governs on" in formal writing.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
84%
Authority and reliability
2.2/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested