poor command

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "poor command" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone's lack of proficiency or skill in a particular area, often related to language or technical abilities. Example: "Her poor command of the language made it difficult for her to communicate effectively during the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Because regime change is unlikely any time soon, the United States and North Korea's neighbors will confront the risk that North Korea could launch a nuclear strike because of intelligence failure, a delegation of nuclear initiation to field commanders, and poor command and control.

The New York Times

Almost immediately, he recognized that he had poor command of his fastball.

The New York Times - Sports

Those with a poor command of English will learn the basics of language".

The Guardian

Regardless, the "poor command climate" line made its way into an advertisement of Mr. Specter's.

The New York Times

Zoffany's career in Britain was hindered, initially, by his poor command of English.

The New York Times

A report at the time said Mr. Sestak had created "a poor command climate".

The New York Times

Migrant workers' poor command of English and lack of knowledge about employment rights makes them particularly vulnerable to mistreatment.

The Guardian - Money

As a result, young Japanese have a poor command of honorific language and do not feel compelled to use it.

The New York Times

The lawyer, Charles W. Gittins, has said communications problems and poor command decisions are causes of many such Air Force accidents, including that of his client, Maj.

The New York Times

There were four suicides in one battalion in Houston that had, as an internal Army report put it, a particularly "poor command climate".

The New Yorker

Instead, he was absent, and it was rumoured that his much-anticipated Hollywood career was hobbled by his poor command of English.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's abilities, be specific about what skill they have a "poor command" of. For example, "poor command of English" is more informative than just "poor command".

Common error

Avoid using "poor command" without specifying the area of deficiency. Saying someone has a "poor command" without context leaves the reader wondering what specific skill or knowledge is lacking.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "poor command" functions as a descriptive adjective phrase, typically modifying a noun to indicate a deficiency in skill or control. Ludwig examples show its wide use to describe language proficiency, technical skills, or even military command effectiveness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

36%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "poor command" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a deficiency in skill, control, or knowledge. Ludwig AI confirms its usability, highlighting its descriptive function across diverse contexts, including language proficiency, technical expertise, and military strategy. While versatile, clarity is key; specify the area where the "poor command" exists to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives like "limited proficiency" or "weak grasp" can offer nuanced expressions. Overall, "poor command" remains a reliable and frequently used phrase in both formal and informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

insufficient command

A more formal way to express lack of control or skill.

limited proficiency

Focuses on the degree of skill rather than a complete lack.

weak grasp

Emphasizes a lack of understanding or control.

weak control

Emphasizes the lack of control over something.

inadequate mastery

Highlights the failure to achieve a sufficient level of skill.

deficient skill

Directly points out the lack of necessary skill.

limited expertise

Highlights the restricted scope of knowledge.

rudimentary knowledge

Suggests only a basic level of understanding.

flawed expertise

Indicates that the existing expertise is imperfect.

subpar competence

Conveys that the competence level is below the expected standard.

FAQs

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

You can use "poor command" to describe a lack of proficiency or skill in something. For example, "His poor command of the language made it difficult to understand him."

What are some alternatives to "poor command"?

Alternatives include "limited proficiency", "weak grasp", or "inadequate mastery", depending on the context.

Is it more formal to say "poor command" or "insufficient command"?

"Insufficient command" is generally considered more formal than "poor command" and may be more appropriate in professional or academic writing.

What's the difference between "poor command" and "lack of expertise"?

"Poor command" often refers to a deficiency in a specific skill or area of knowledge, while "lack of expertise" /s/lack+of+expertise might suggest a more general absence of knowledge or experience in a particular field.