mind control

USAGE SUMMARY

‘mind control’ is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when talking or writing about any form of control that is exerted over the mind, especially when talking about manipulation or domination. For example, “He was able to exert a form of mind control over his followers.”.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Programming mind control!

The New Yorker

It's basically mind control".

The New York Times

Military mind control?

The Guardian - Film

"That's mind control," he rails.

The Guardian - Film

[Daily News]  Mind control is now real.

The New York Times

But he added, laughing, "The mind control is working.

The New Yorker

Mind control is a roofie, but it's also an addiction.

The New Yorker

"Compliance" charts the mechanisms and progress of mind control.

The New York Times

Forced telepathy — it's the last step for total mind control".

The New York Times - Books

Or if mind control might secure you a date?

The Economist

"Mind control" is suddenly not just plausible, but actually rather easy.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "mind control" when referring to the subversion of an individual's autonomy through psychological tactics. Be specific about the methods or techniques involved.

Common error

Avoid using "mind control" when describing ordinary persuasion or influence. "Mind control" implies a deeper, more manipulative level of control than simply changing someone's opinion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "mind control" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a concept or phenomenon related to the manipulation of an individual's thoughts and actions. Ludwig AI confirms that it's a valid and understandable phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "mind control" is a commonly used noun phrase that refers to the manipulation of an individual's thoughts, behaviors, or decisions through psychological or other means. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use. While the concept often appears in science fiction, it also has real-world relevance in discussions of cults, manipulation tactics, and emerging technologies like neuromodulation. When using the term, be sure to differentiate between true subversion of autonomy and simple "influence" or persuasion. Alternatives like "psychological manipulation" or "thought control" may be more appropriate depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

thought control

Emphasizes the control over an individual's thoughts and beliefs.

psychological manipulation

Focuses on the use of psychological techniques to influence someone's thoughts, feelings, or behaviors.

mental manipulation

Similar to psychological manipulation, but with a stronger implication of deception.

brainwashing

Refers to a more forceful and systematic form of mind control, often involving coercion.

coercive persuasion

Highlights the element of pressure and manipulation in changing someone's beliefs or behaviors.

subliminal messaging

Involves using subtle cues to influence someone's thoughts or behavior without their conscious awareness.

commanding influence

Suggests a powerful control over others, like a leader or authority figure.

influence

A broader term encompassing various ways of affecting someone's thoughts or actions, not necessarily negative.

persuasion

The act of convincing someone to adopt a particular belief or course of action.

neuromodulation

Technological manipulation of brain activity to influence behavior.

FAQs

How is "mind control" typically achieved?

The term "mind control" refers to subverting an individual's thinking, behavior, emotions, or decisions through psychological tactics. Hypnosis and coercive persuasion are often mentioned as techniques, though the concept is frequently explored in fiction as well.

What are some less sensational alternatives to "mind control"?

Depending on the context, you might consider using "psychological manipulation", "coercive persuasion", or simply "influence". The best choice depends on the degree of control being exerted.

Is "mind control" scientifically possible?

While the idea of complete "mind control" as depicted in fiction is not scientifically proven, techniques like neuromodulation and psychological manipulation demonstrate that influencing a person's thoughts and behaviors is possible to varying degrees.

When is it appropriate to use the term "mind control"?

Use "mind control" when describing situations where an individual's autonomy and decision-making abilities are significantly compromised through deliberate psychological tactics. It is often used in discussions of cults, coercive environments, and science fiction.