have control over

USAGE SUMMARY

'have control over' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express that someone or something is in charge of a situation. Example sentence: The manager has control over the decision making process.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I have control over it.

Independent

We don't have control over it.

The New York Times

"Everything else you have control over".

The New York Times

"Who shall have control over the story?

The New York Times - Books

Do users have control over what's stored?

Harvard University

We don't have control over their actions".

The Guardian

But it's one we have control over.

The New York Times - Health

I don't have control over the ownership".

The New York Times - Sports

"But we have control over those things".

The New York Times

You do have control over it".

The Guardian - Opinion

D.C. should have control over its future.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "have control over", ensure the subject is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity about who or what is exerting control.

Common error

Avoid assuming complete control. The phrase "have control over" doesn't necessarily imply absolute power; it often refers to influence within specific boundaries.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "have control over" functions as a verb phrase indicating the ability to manage, direct, or exert authority over something or someone. As Ludwig AI points out, it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Academia

16%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Science

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "have control over" is a versatile and commonly used phrase that effectively conveys the ability to manage, direct, or influence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely accepted in various contexts. Its frequent appearance in news media, academic writing, and formal business settings demonstrates its broad applicability. When using this phrase, clarity about the subject exerting control is key. While the phrase denotes power, it's important to recognize that control is often limited within specific parameters. Understanding these nuances allows for precise and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exercise authority over

This alternative emphasizes the official or legitimate power one possesses over something.

be in charge of

This suggests a leadership role and responsibility for directing something.

have authority over

This phrase highlights the legitimate power to make decisions and give orders.

be at the helm of

This metaphorically describes being in a position of leadership and guidance.

have jurisdiction over

This alternative focuses on the legal right and power to apply the law.

be in command of

Emphasizes direct authority, especially in military or hierarchical contexts.

dictate terms for

This suggests having the power to set conditions and influence agreements.

call the shots on

This idiom indicates the power to make the important decisions.

dominate and steer

This option showcases both the act of dominating and leading in a specific direction.

wield influence over

This alternative suggests having a subtle but effective power to affect something.

FAQs

How can I use "have control over" in a sentence?

You can use "have control over" to indicate the ability to manage or direct something. For example, "The manager "has control over" the project's budget".

What are some alternatives to "have control over"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "be in charge of", "exercise authority over", or "have authority over".

Is it correct to say "has control on" instead of "have control over"?

No, the correct preposition to use with "have control" is "over". "Have control on" is grammatically incorrect. You can say: "have a grip on".

What's the difference between "have control over" and "have influence over"?

"Have control over" implies a direct ability to manage or dictate, while "have influence over" suggests a more subtle power to affect decisions or outcomes.