maintain strict control

USAGE SUMMARY

"maintain strict control" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you are discussing the importance of limiting or regulating something. For example, you could say, "It is important to maintain strict control over the company's expenditures."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

China's rulers forbid opposition parties and maintain strict control over all media.

The Guardian

Unlike Google, in its main market Baidu faces an unpredictable government, determined to maintain strict control over the internet and the media in general.

The Economist

The software allows the company to maintain strict control over the copies of electronic books on its reader and also prevents other companies from selling material for the device.

The New York Times - Tech

Digital books for the Kindle are sold with so-called digital rights management software, which allows Amazon to maintain strict control over the copies of electronic books on its reader and prevents other companies from selling books for the device.

The New York Times - Tech

In all likelihood, Roberto Mancini would have suspected that, as a unit, his team do not quite have the knowhow to maintain strict control at home when the opposition are of this calibre.

The Guardian - Sport

He also tried to maintain strict control over the provincial governors but was forced to allow a relative degree of autonomy to his former general, Ṭāhir, who had been named governor of Khorāsān.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

"Authorities maintain strict controls on freedom of assembly and religion," it said.

Independent

But internet analysts say comparisons with other countries also trying to maintain strict controls on the internet, like China and North Korea, raise big questions about how far the Iranian government will be able to go.

BBC

The Communist Party maintains strict control over media companies.

The New York Times

Mr. Holland, the bassist, is a veteran who chases chaos yet maintains strict control.

The New York Times

The Chinese government maintains strict control over the practice of Islam in Xinjiang.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "maintain strict control", ensure that the context clearly indicates what is being controlled and why the control is necessary for clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "maintain strict control" when a more moderate approach is sufficient. Overemphasizing control can create a perception of rigidity or mistrust.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "maintain strict control" functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of exerting significant power or influence over something. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and usability. The verb "maintain" suggests continuity, while "strict control" specifies the degree of regulation.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

10%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "maintain strict control" is a grammatically sound and useful expression for conveying the concept of tightly regulating or managing something. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its correctness, highlighting its presence across diverse contexts like News & Media, Science, and Encyclopedias. While alternatives exist, such as "exercise firm control" or "enforce rigorous standards", the choice depends on the specific nuance desired. Remember to use this phrase judiciously, ensuring that the context warrants the emphasis on strictness. Consider this usage when you want to highlight the importance of regulation, supervision, or management to achieve a specific goal.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exercise firm control

Uses "exercise" instead of "maintain" and "firm" instead of "strict", suggesting a more active exertion of control.

exert close supervision

Replaces "control" with "supervision", emphasizing oversight and monitoring.

enforce rigorous standards

Shifts the focus to the standards being enforced, implying control through adherence to rules.

keep a tight rein

An idiomatic expression suggesting close and careful management.

ensure stringent compliance

Highlights the act of ensuring compliance with strict rules or regulations.

implement tight regulation

Focuses on the implementation of regulations as a means of control.

keep under close watch

Suggests vigilance and careful observation as a method of control.

administer with precision

Emphasizes accuracy and attention to detail in the administration process.

oversee with diligence

Highlights the care and conscientiousness involved in overseeing something.

uphold rigorous governance

Focuses on governance and its enforcement, implying control through established systems.

FAQs

How can I use "maintain strict control" in a sentence?

You can use "maintain strict control" to describe the act of tightly regulating or managing something. For example, "The government aims to "maintain strict control" over financial transactions to prevent money laundering".

What are some alternatives to "maintain strict control"?

Alternatives include "exercise firm control", "enforce rigorous standards", or "keep a tight rein", each offering a slightly different nuance. Consider using "exercise firm control" to express active management.

Is it better to say "maintain strict control" or "retain strict control"?

Both "maintain strict control" and "retain strict control" are grammatically correct and convey similar meanings. "Maintain" implies continuing a current state, while "retain" suggests holding onto something previously possessed.

What does it mean to "maintain strict control" in a business context?

In a business context, "maintain strict control" typically refers to carefully managing resources, processes, or information to ensure efficiency, compliance, and security. For instance, a company might "maintain strict control" over its supply chain to minimize disruptions.