limited command of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "limited command of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone's restricted ability or proficiency in a particular skill or language. Example: "She has a limited command of French, which makes it challenging for her to hold conversations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

Her expertise is unexpected in the context of her otherwise limited command of English.

The New Yorker

But he also said his limited command of English had reduced the company's ability to get its points across.

The New York Times

In 1961 an Italian player with limited command of English announced "seven spades" when he meant to say "six spades".

The New York Times - Arts

The combination of the owner's abrupt disappearance and the client's limited command of the language was a powerful one.

Independent

There were also concerns about how well Mr. al-'Owhali, a Saudi with a limited command of English, understood what he was being told.

The New York Times

To this mix Mr. Henry has added and performed recurring characters like Herbert, a mild-mannered elderly pedophile, and Consuela, a stocky Hispanic maid with a limited command of English.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

The $2,000 mechanical mutt can navigate around a room and respond to a set of limited commands.

Forbes

Another disadvantage of written consent rather than verbal consent expressed was that it was less likely to be valid in people of limited literacy or command of written English.

BMC Medical Research Methodology

"Many of the comments we have heard about the framework," they wrote last summer, "reflect either a misunderstanding of U.S. history or a very limited faith in history teachers' command of their subject matter". It's worse than that.

Los Angeles Times

"Many of the comments we have heard about the framework," they wrote last summer, "reflect either a misunderstanding of U.S. history or a very limited faith in history teachers' command of their subject matter". .

Los Angeles Times

In the 11th century the constable (connétable) of France became one of the five great officers of state, with limited powers of jurisdiction and with command of the cavalry.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's language abilities, follow "limited command of" with the specific language (e.g., "limited command of Spanish") to provide clarity.

Common error

Avoid overstating the limitation. "Limited command of" indicates some level of proficiency, not complete absence of skill. Use phrases like "no command of" if there's absolutely no skill.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "limited command of" functions as a descriptive adjective phrase modifying a noun. It describes the extent to which someone possesses skill or knowledge, particularly in language. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Science

35%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "limited command of" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe a restricted ability or proficiency, most commonly in language skills. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread usage. While suitable for various contexts, including news, science, and general conversation, it is essential to accurately reflect the degree of limitation and specify the area of proficiency. Alternatives like "basic grasp of" or "partial mastery of" can be used to fine-tune the meaning. Remember to use the specific language after the phrase to provide clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

little command of

Highlights that there is almost no control or knowledge

partial command of

Highlights that the control or knowledge is not complete

basic grasp of

Emphasizes a foundational understanding rather than developed skill.

rudimentary knowledge of

Highlights the elementary nature of the knowledge.

imperfect mastery of

Focuses on the lack of complete skill and expertise.

superficial knowledge of

Indicates a lack of deep or thorough understanding.

deficient understanding of

Stresses the inadequacy of comprehension.

weak control over

Indicates a lack of power or influence.

inadequate handling of

Suggests an insufficient ability to manage or deal with something.

restricted access to

Implies limited ability to use or obtain something.

FAQs

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

You can use "limited command of" to describe someone's restricted ability in a particular skill or language. For example, "He has a limited command of English, which makes communication difficult."

What's a more formal way to say "limited command of"?

A more formal alternative could be "partial mastery of" or "rudimentary knowledge of", depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "limited command of" or "limited control of"?

Both phrases are correct, but they have slightly different meanings. "Limited command of" typically refers to skills or languages, while "limited control of" often refers to power or influence.

What can I say instead of "limited command of"?

You can use alternatives like "basic grasp of", "imperfect mastery of", or "deficient understanding of" depending on the specific nuances you want to convey.