person in command

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "person in command" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to an individual who has authority or control over a situation, group, or operation. Example: "During the emergency, the person in command made critical decisions to ensure everyone's safety."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

But, you know, out of the course of the sketch the person in command of the situation, who was really running the relationship, was the little, mousy downtrodden one.

The Guardian

"When you as a police officer show up at a chaotic or threatening or dangerous situation, you need to demonstrate your command presence -- that you are the person in command of this situation.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

It turned out that the person most in command of the facts was Betty Sumner, a retired schoolteacher and the president of the Chamber of Commerce.

The New Yorker

Senior commanders who cannot personally keep an eye on every person in their command understand the value of social media; online networks can be used to forge powerful community connections to help avert tragedy.

HuffPost

I wish we lived in a world in which no person in full command of his or her faculties would do something so foolish that would inconvenience so many other people.

The Economist

Announcing his plans to stand for second term, he joked: "I have written a letter to the relevant person in high command for the nomination, but whether they give it to me is another question".

BBC

A Major General in the U.S. Air Force had not only taken the time to read the scribbling of the lowest ranking person in his Command, but had also shown an interest and acted on it -- only in America.

Huffington Post

The Bush administration has specifically cited General Zolqadr and seven others as "key persons" in its command structure.

The New York Times

In case such vessels are so used, with the knowledge of the owner or master or other person in charge or command thereof, the vessel, together with her tackle, apparel, furniture, and equipment, shall be subject to seizure and forfeiture to the United States in the same manner as merchandise is forfeited for violation of the customs revenue laws.

Cornell University

Blaine refused to enter the race, and no other person in the party commanded substantial support.

Encyclopedia Britannica

She was then the No. 3 person in the chain of command, and it was her 15th year in the military.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "person in command" when you want to emphasize the individual's role in directing and controlling a specific situation, especially when their authority is crucial for decision-making.

Common error

Avoid using "person in command" in casual conversations or informal writing. Simpler terms like "leader" or "the one in charge" are often more appropriate and less formal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "person in command" functions as a noun phrase, identifying an individual who holds a position of authority. It is used to specify who is responsible for making decisions and giving orders in a particular context. As Ludwig AI suggests, the expression is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Wiki

25%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "person in command" is a noun phrase used to designate the individual holding the authority to direct and control situations, primarily in professional, news, and academic settings. While grammatically correct and usable, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, its usage frequency is uncommon. Related phrases include "person in charge", "leader", and "commander". When using this phrase, it's crucial to consider the context and avoid overuse in informal conversations. It emphasizes the role and responsibility of the individual in charge.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

person in charge

Focuses on responsibility and oversight rather than direct authority.

leader

A general term for someone who guides or directs a group.

commander

Implies a formal position of authority, often in a military or hierarchical context.

head

Suggests the top position in an organization or group.

chief

Similar to 'head' but can also imply a leading role in a particular area or skill.

director

Typically refers to someone who manages or oversees a specific activity or department.

supervisor

Suggests someone who monitors and guides the work of others.

overseer

Implies a more watchful and controlling role than 'supervisor'.

manager

Focuses on the administrative and organizational aspects of a leadership role.

authority figure

Highlights the power and influence someone has over others.

FAQs

What does "person in command" mean?

The phrase "person in command" refers to the individual who has authority and responsibility for directing and controlling a specific situation, operation, or group.

What can I say instead of "person in command"?

You can use alternatives like "person in charge", "leader", or "commander" depending on the context.

How to use "person in command" in a sentence?

Example: "During the crisis, the "person in command" made crucial decisions that saved lives."

When is it appropriate to use "person in command"?

It's appropriate in situations where there is a clear hierarchy or chain of command, such as in the military, emergency response, or project management.