i command you

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I command you" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone is giving a directive or order, often in a formal or authoritative manner. Example: "As the leader of this mission, I command you to follow the plan without deviation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

35 human-written examples

Surely, this commandment that I command you today is not beyond your understanding, nor is it distant.

Huffington Post

"I command you," said Yusuf the Tall.

The New York Times - Books

And the Lord responds: "What I command you, you shall speak.

The New York Times

Walking down the hallway laughing, she points her pretend wand and says "Walk, I command you to walk".

Independent

As dinh I command you!" Jake's eyes flew wide at the sound of Roland'svoice issuing from Callahan's throat.

The New York Times - Books

"I command you in the name of God," he declares from the pulpit, "stop the repression". But even he was not immune from the general violence.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

"I commanded you not to speak English!

The New Yorker

He tells us to make disciples by "teaching them to observe all that I commanded you" (Matthew 28 20), and that includes everything his spirit revealed to the apostles and other Bible writers.

Los Angeles Times

Belief is characterized precisely by the fact that it lies outside the will: I can command you to imagine something but not to believe it.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But in the absence of any list deemed good enough to compete with the Trust's version, I simply command you to get outside and stop reading my drivel.

Independent

Two more hard-to-read words come later, and Mr. Knohl said he believed that he had deciphered them as well, so that the line reads, "In three days you shall live, I, Gabriel, command you".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "I command you", ensure the context clearly establishes your authority or the reason for issuing a direct order. It should not be used in situations where collaboration or persuasion are more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "I command you" in casual conversation or when addressing peers. Its forceful tone can come across as arrogant or humorous, making "I suggest" or "I ask you to" much more suitable alternatives.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I command you" functions as a declarative speech act, specifically an imperative. It's used to issue a direct order or instruction, compelling the listener to perform a specific action. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Wiki

23%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

9%

Science

9%

Formal & Business

9%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "I command you" is a direct and forceful way to issue an order, typically used when the speaker has authority. According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and usable. While "I command you" is deemed correct, its forceful tone may be inappropriate in certain contexts. Consider alternatives like "I ask you to" or "I suggest" for more collaborative or persuasive situations. The expression appears with relative frequency in News & Media, Wikipedia, and Academic contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I order you

Direct synonym, placing emphasis on authority and hierarchy.

I demand you

Expresses a forceful expectation with little room for refusal.

I direct you

Emphasizes guidance and instruction rather than strict command.

It is my command that you

A more elaborate and emphatic way of issuing an order.

I instruct you

More formal and instructional, suggesting a learning context.

You are hereby commanded

Highly formal and legalistic, used in official decrees.

I require you to

Suggests a need or obligation rather than direct authority.

I urge you

Less forceful, implying a strong recommendation.

I tell you to

Direct and simple, lacking the formality of "command".

You must

States a necessity without explicitly mentioning who is commanding.

FAQs

What does "I command you" mean?

The phrase "I command you" means that the speaker is issuing a direct order and expects compliance. It indicates authority and control over the person being addressed.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "I command you"?

It is appropriate to use "I command you" when you have legitimate authority over someone, such as in the military, in a formal work setting, or when playing a role that demands authority. It should be used sparingly to avoid sounding overly authoritarian.

Are there any alternatives to "I command you" that are less forceful?

Yes, alternatives include "I request that you", "I ask you to", "please", or "I suggest", depending on the context and the desired level of politeness.

How can I use "I command you" in a sentence?

You can use "I command you" in a sentence like this: "As your captain, I command you to follow my orders immediately." or "In the name of the law, I command you to halt."