lack of command

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lack of command" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to describe a situation where someone does not have authority or control over a situation or group of people. Example: The team's performance suffered due to the lack of command from their inexperienced coach.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

Robertson bemoaned his lack of command.

The New York Times - Sports

But with only momentary exceptions, there is a distinct lack of command emanating from the stage.

The New York Times

When Shields tries to transcend transcription, this lack of command becomes more evident.

The New York Times

"There was evidently in the pictures themselves a lack of command control".

The New York Times

Lately, Hughes's lack of command of his fastball and his cutter has led to mistakes.

The New York Times - Sports

They felt his blazing fastball — and his lack of command as a starter — made him better suited for shorter stints.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

In a release, the department said that there were "procedural issues," including a lack of "command-level review," when detectives interviewed Mr. Gore's accuser in 2009.

The New York Times

Jurors also criticized the actions of the emergency services personnel at the game, saying there was a "lack of coordination, command and control which delayed or prevented appropriate responses".

Los Angeles Times

More important, he said, was his lack of slider command this season.

The New York Times

We started to find out about things like the radios and the lack of unified command structure.

The New Yorker

In its report on the Police Department, the consultant called for a clearer delineation of the roles and responsibilities of the department's leaders because of a lack of clear command structure and direction during and after the Sept. 11 attack.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "lack of command", ensure the context clearly indicates what specific area or situation is affected by the absence of authority or control. For instance, specify "lack of command of the English language" or "lack of command in crisis situations".

Common error

Avoid using "lack of command" without specifying the area or skill where command is lacking. A general statement can be vague and less impactful. Instead, clarify the specific domain, such as "lack of command of the facts" or "lack of command of troops".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lack of command" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig examples show it describing a deficiency or absence of authority, control, or skill in a particular area. This follows Ludwig AI statement about the correctness of the expression.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Wiki

17%

Science

11%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "lack of command" is a versatile noun phrase used to denote the absence of authority, control, or expertise. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. Appearing frequently in news and media, as demonstrated by Ludwig examples, the phrase is also found in scientific and formal contexts, indicating a neutral to professional register. Related phrases include "absence of control" and "deficiency in leadership", offering alternative ways to express similar concepts. When using this phrase, it's crucial to specify the area where command is lacking to avoid vagueness and ensure clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

absence of control

Focuses on the missing element of control rather than authority.

deficiency in leadership

Highlights the inadequacy in leading a group or situation.

inadequate authority

Emphasizes that the existing level of authority is insufficient.

poor management

Points to the inefficiency or ineffectiveness in handling affairs.

want of mastery

Implies a deficit in expertise or skill over something.

failure to govern

Stresses the inability to successfully oversee or regulate.

absence of regulation

Highlights lack of rules and directions.

breakdown in order

Conveys a situation where structure or control has been lost.

limited influence

Suggests a restricted capacity to affect outcomes or behaviors.

weak leadership

Indicates that the leadership is not strong or effective.

FAQs

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

You can use "lack of command" to describe a deficiency in authority, control, or expertise. For example, "The project failed due to a "lack of command" from the project manager".

What are some alternatives to "lack of command"?

Alternatives to "lack of command" include "absence of control", "deficiency in leadership", or "inadequate authority". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say "a lack of command" or "lack of command"?

Both "a lack of command" and "lack of command" are grammatically correct. "Lack of command" is more common, but "a lack of command" can be used for emphasis or when it sounds more natural in a particular sentence structure.

What's the difference between "lack of command" and "lack of control"?

"Lack of command" typically implies an absence of authority or leadership, while "lack of control" suggests an inability to manage or regulate something. While related, "lack of control" focuses more on the outcome or management of a situation, whereas "lack of command" centers on authority.