greater command of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "greater command of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone's superior understanding or proficiency in a particular subject or skill. Example: "Her greater command of the language allowed her to translate complex texts with ease."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

Seo had greater command of his fastball in his return from the minors.

The New York Times - Sports

They discovered his motion was slower, more deceptive, giving him greater command of his sinker and changeup, which he threw for strikes Friday, which made both Pettittes smile.

The New York Times - Sports

I always loved a Sabeth days letter, for then you had a greater command of your time — but hush to all complaints.

The New Yorker

My concern is that he went backward this year – his third – and this should be when he was improving and taking greater command of the offense.

The New York Times

The coming series of debates, like the election itself, pits Mr. Bush, who has long assumed that he has a personality advantage, against Mr. Gore, who taps a seemingly greater command of policy details.

The New York Times

Nino Kalandadze, Georgia's deputy foreign minister, says that the ships can carry up to 16 helicopters and more than 450 troops, giving Moscow much greater command of its coastlines.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

"He had great command of his voice and knew how to use it.

The New York Times - Sports

He has a great command of pacing, he's got some good technical things.

The Guardian - Books

"Tremendous insight, a tremendous knowledge of personnel, a great command of the intricacies of the game from a strategic standpoint".

The New York Times

He was throwing so well, with such great command of the knuckleball, I thought this might be something special today".

The New York Times - Sports

Mr. Obama was powerful, forceful and in control, and had a great command of facts and figures.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's enhanced ability, use "greater command of" followed by the specific area of expertise to provide clarity. For instance, "greater command of the English language" or "greater command of project management".

Common error

Avoid using "greater command of" in situations where simpler terms like "better at" or "knows more about" would suffice. Overusing formal phrases can make your writing sound pretentious.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "greater command of" functions as a modifier, typically describing the extent or degree of expertise someone possesses in a particular area. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a correct and usable phrase. Examples from Ludwig illustrate it modifying skills, knowledge, and abilities.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "greater command of" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to denote a significant level of proficiency, skill, or expertise. As Ludwig AI explains, it is a correct and usable phrase, and its presence across various domains such as News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business confirms its broad applicability. While there are several alternatives like "superior mastery of" or "deeper understanding of", it's important to use it appropriately, avoiding overuse in simpler contexts. The phrase's function, as illustrated by Ludwig's examples, serves to emphasize competence and expertise, making it a valuable addition to one's vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

superior mastery of

Emphasizes a higher level of skill and expertise.

enhanced proficiency in

Highlights the improvement in skill and competence.

increased control over

Focuses on the expanded ability to manage or direct something.

deeper understanding of

Stresses a more profound comprehension of a subject.

broader knowledge of

Indicates a more extensive awareness and familiarity.

stronger grasp of

Suggests a firmer and more secure understanding.

more advanced handling of

Highlights the skillful and sophisticated management.

improved expertise in

Focuses on the enhanced level of specialized knowledge.

heightened capability in

Emphasizes an elevated ability to perform.

advanced aptitude for

Highlights a natural talent or inclination at an elevated level.

FAQs

How can I use "greater command of" in a sentence?

You can use "greater command of" to describe someone's improved proficiency or expertise in a specific area. For example, "Her "greater command of" the subject matter allowed her to excel in the debate".

What are some alternatives to "greater command of"?

Some alternatives include "superior mastery of", "enhanced proficiency in", or "deeper understanding of", depending on the context.

Is it more appropriate to say "greater command on" or "greater command of"?

"Greater command of" is the correct and idiomatic usage. "Greater command on" is grammatically incorrect and not commonly used.

What's the difference between "good command of" and "greater command of"?

"Good command of" indicates a solid, competent understanding, while ""greater command of"" implies a higher, more advanced level of proficiency compared to a general "good" level.