harsh control

USAGE SUMMARY

"harsh control" is a correct and usable term in written English.
It can be used in many different contexts to describe a situation where someone is exerting rigid and strict control over another person, group, or thing. For example, "The dictator exerted harsh control over his subjects, denying them basic human rights."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Harsh control signals produced by MVC are among other disadvantages of this controller.

ISA Transactions

How many people really needed such harsh control, and for how long?

The New York Times

This high requirement is not only represented by the realization of ultra-low PV and RMS values of the conventional surface roughness error in the spatial domain, but reflected by the harsh control of surface errors in the full spatial frequency domain [2, 3].

Chinese Journal of Mechanical Engineering

: very harsh control or authority.

HuffPost

After her mother passed away when Corbaz was 11, the young girl came under the harsh control of her older sister.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

"We must impose harsh controls," he warns.

The Economist

But Sweden and Denmark have now followed the British example of imposing harsh controls, with the intent of discouraging people from even reaching their border.

The Guardian - Opinion

It's true that China, which is newer to capital markets and more anxious about their volatility, made things worse by imposing harsh controls.

The New Yorker

Largely unskilled and semiskilled, these men and women had no rights within the guild and in fact were subjected to harsh controls by the guild.

Encyclopedia Britannica

China dismissed questions about its harsh controls over union organizing this week as it agreed to an ambitious program of cooperation with an international labor agency intended to improve the welfare of the country's huge and troubled work force.

The New York Times

This marks a departure from the previous doctrine of Gen. Casey of standing down when Iraqis stand up, to the new Petraeus doctrine of defeating the insurgents and imposing harsh controls on the Iraqi population.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "harsh control", ensure the context clearly indicates what or whom the control is being exerted upon to avoid ambiguity. For instance, specify "harsh border control" or "harsh parental control".

Common error

Avoid using "harsh control" without specifying the area of control. For example, instead of saying "The government imposed harsh control", clarify with "The government imposed harsh control over media outlets."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "harsh control" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "harsh" is an adjective modifying the noun "control". It describes the nature or quality of the control being exerted, indicating its severity or oppressiveness. Ludwig confirms this is a standard and correct phrase.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Academia

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "harsh control" is a grammatically sound and relatively uncommon expression used to describe situations where power or authority is wielded with significant severity. Analysis of Ludwig's examples reveals its frequent use in News & Media, Science, and Encyclopedias, indicating its relevance across various domains. Ludwig AI confirms the validity of the phrase.

While semantically related alternatives such as "strict regulation" or "oppressive rule" exist, "harsh control" specifically emphasizes the intensity and negative impact of the control. When employing this phrase, writers should ensure clear contextualization to specify the subject and scope of control. Being mindful of the inherent negative connotations can help prevent unintended implications and ensure precise communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

strict regulation

Emphasizes formalized rules rather than personal control.

rigid dominion

Implies a strong and unyielding power or authority.

severe restraint

Focuses on limiting actions or behaviors.

oppressive rule

Highlights the negative impact of the control on those subjected to it.

stringent governance

Refers to strict and demanding methods of governing.

heavy-handed management

Suggests a clumsy or insensitive approach to control.

autocratic administration

Describes control by a single powerful figure.

draconian measures

Emphasizes the severity and inflexibility of the control.

iron fist

A more figurative term to suggest power and ruthless control.

firm command

Suggests control through authority.

FAQs

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

You might say, "The dictator maintained power through "harsh control" of the media and political opposition", or "The new regulations imposed "harsh control" on emissions from factories".

What phrases are similar to "harsh control"?

Alternatives include "strict regulation", "rigid dominion", or "oppressive rule", each carrying slightly different connotations.

Is "harsh control" a negative term?

Yes, "harsh control" generally carries a negative connotation, suggesting excessive or oppressive restriction. However, context is crucial; in some situations, it might be seen as necessary, though still undesirable.

What is the difference between "harsh control" and "strict control"?

While both imply firm regulation, "harsh control" suggests a more severe or oppressive application of authority, often associated with negative consequences. "Strict control" can be seen as simply firm and unwavering, without the negative implications of harshness.