he gained control over

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "he gained control over" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing someone who has taken charge or authority over a situation, person, or entity. Example: "After months of negotiations, he gained control over the company's operations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

After years of fighting, he gained control over eastern Libya.

The New York Times

Minos obtained the Cretan throne by the aid of the Greek god Poseidon, and from Knossos (or Gortyn) he gained control over the Aegean islands, colonizing many of them and ridding the sea of pirates.

Encyclopedia Britannica

By allying with Philip the Good, duke of Burgundy, in 1423, he gained control over northwestern France, and he then opened an offensive against the French king, Charles VII.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

By interpreting a law that originated with God, they gained control over the legal system as it actually existed.

The New York Times - Magazine

He then spells out how he gradually gained control over other inmates.

The New York Times

He has overseen Cuba's military since the beginning, his influence rising as he also gained control over the police force.

The Washington Post

He skillfully gained control over the Mongols outside the league.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Ledgard's follow-up, "Submergence," shows he has gained control over a full range of skills.

The New York Times - Books

Able to levy some taxes, he built up the army with the proceeds and then used the army to collect more taxes, until finally he had gained control over the entire country.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A humble soldier, Ya'qub, surnamed al-Saffar ("the Coppersmith"), had exploited the decade-long Samarra strife to first gain control over his native Sistan, and by 873 he had gained control over almost all of the eastern lands of the Caliphate, ousting the hitherto dominant Tahirids from power, a move denounced by al-Muwaffaq.

Wikipedia

Hiram moved to Lyons, New York, in 1843, where he began cultivating peppermint, and gradually gained control over the farm supply of mint and over the oil market.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "he gained control over", ensure the context clearly indicates what was controlled and the method by which control was achieved. Specificity enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "he gained control over" without specifying the object of control. Vague statements diminish the impact and create ambiguity. Always clarify what was brought under control.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "he gained control over" functions as a verbal phrase indicating the subject's action of acquiring power or authority over something. It describes a change in status where the subject moves into a position of command or dominance, as supported by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

33%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Academia

7%

Science

7%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "he gained control over" is a versatile expression used to denote the acquisition of authority or dominance. Grammatically correct and frequently found in news, encyclopedias, and various other contexts, it signifies a shift in power dynamics. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. While alternatives exist for varying degrees of formality, "he gained control over" provides a straightforward and effective means of conveying the establishment of command, as the provided examples demonstrate. Ensure specificity regarding the object of control to maximize clarity and impact in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

he assumed authority over

Focuses on the assumption of power or right to control.

he acquired dominance over

Emphasizes the achievement of a dominant position.

he took command of

Highlights the act of assuming a leadership role.

he established his rule over

Implies the creation or reinforcement of authoritative governance.

he secured power over

Stresses the attainment and safeguarding of control.

he exerted influence over

Highlights the act of applying pressure or persuasion.

he dominated

Concise synonym, emphasizing superior power or influence.

he achieved mastery of

Focuses on reaching a high level of skill or control in a specific area.

he brought under his sway

Emphasizes the act of influencing or governing people or entities.

he took the reins of

Highlights assuming direction and management, often in a subtle manner.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "he gained control over" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "he assumed authority over" or "he acquired dominance over", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What are some less formal alternatives to "he gained control over"?

In less formal contexts, you could use phrases like "he took charge of" or "he took over", which are more conversational.

Is there a difference between "he gained control over" and "he exerted influence over"?

"He gained control over" implies a more direct and authoritative command, while "he exerted influence over" suggests a more subtle and persuasive approach.

When is it appropriate to use "he gained control over" in writing?

Use "he gained control over" when you want to emphasize the acquisition of authority or command, particularly after a period of struggle or competition. It's suitable in news reports, historical accounts, and formal analyses.