maintain command

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "maintain command" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone is expected to keep control or authority over a situation, such as in military, leadership, or management scenarios. Example: "During the crisis, the captain had to maintain command to ensure the safety of the crew."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

How long will the country's ruler of 17 years be able to maintain command?

The New York Times

But Hernandez was different, Posada said, -- he needs to be in a consistent regimen to maintain command of his pitches.

The New York Times - Sports

How can multinational crew members – many of them from developing nations and not sharing the language of the passengers or even fellow seafarers onboard – be expected to maintain command and control in such circumstances?

The Guardian - Opinion

Companies like Toyota and Honda diligently maintain "command network" flexibility and employee self-management, because they know their forecasting models cannot possibly predict the daily surprises that can only be handled by front-line workers.

Forbes

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries the battleship was the most powerful type of warship, and a fleet of battleships was vital for any nation which desired to maintain command of the sea.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

However, Theresa May's Conservatives maintain commanding leads of 40% v 25% among 65 to 74-year-olds and 57% v 15% among the over-75s.

The Guardian

A8 Israeli Occupation's Stalemate The Israeli Army maintains command of virtually all Palestinian areas of the West Bank and speaks of keeping the troops there for months.

The New York Times

I'm on my battalion staff, which means I advise the commander regarding all communications (commo) issues, and maintain C2 (command and control) on the battlefield.

The New York Times

Torre said he was concerned about Wohlers's being able to maintain his command with so little work.

The New York Times - Sports

But García, now 32, can realistically aim for a much longer run if he can maintain sufficient command of his putter.

The New York Times - Sports

The Israeli Army continued to maintain full command of virtually all Palestinian areas of the West Bank today, with little sense on either side that the stalemate was near an end.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "maintain command" when referring to the act of keeping authority or control, especially in situations involving hierarchies or structured environments such as military operations or organizational leadership.

Common error

Avoid using "maintain command" in informal settings where a less formal phrase like "stay in charge" or "keep control" would be more appropriate. This phrase is best suited for scenarios where a formal chain of command or hierarchical structure is present.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "maintain command" functions primarily as a verb phrase. It describes the act of sustaining or keeping control, authority, or leadership. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "maintain command" is a grammatically correct and contextually appropriate term, particularly useful in formal settings. As Ludwig AI confirms, it conveys the act of preserving control or authority, often in scenarios with established hierarchies. While not exceedingly common, it's found in reputable sources such as The New York Times and Wikipedia. Related phrases like "retain control" and "preserve authority" can offer suitable alternatives, depending on the specific context. Understanding the nuances of its usage ensures precise and effective communication, especially in professional or leadership-oriented environments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

retain control

Focuses more directly on keeping control, omitting the implication of a structured hierarchy.

preserve authority

Emphasizes the act of keeping power or influence.

sustain leadership

Highlights the ongoing effort to keep a leading position.

exercise control

Focuses on the act of using control rather than maintaining it.

keep in charge

A more informal way of expressing maintaining control.

hold sway

Implies influence and dominance, shifting slightly from direct command.

uphold authority

Stresses the act of defending or supporting existing authority.

ensure dominance

Focuses on maintaining a superior position or power.

manage operations

Emphasizes the practical aspects of maintaining control in a functional context.

govern effectively

Focuses on the overall result of maintaining command, which is effective governance.

FAQs

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

You can use "maintain command" to describe the act of keeping authority, such as: "The captain had to maintain command during the storm" or "The general needed to maintain command of the troops".

What is a good alternative to "maintain command"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "retain control", "preserve authority", or "sustain leadership".

When is it appropriate to use "maintain command"?

It's appropriate to use "maintain command" in formal settings, such as military operations, organizational leadership, or crisis management, where a clear chain of command is essential.

What's the difference between "maintain command" and "exercise control"?

"Maintain command" implies keeping an existing position of authority, while "exercise control" focuses on the act of using authority or power. While related, "exercise control" emphasizes the active application of power, whereas "maintain command" focuses on preserving the authority itself.