power of command

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "power of command" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone's authority or ability to direct or control others, often in a leadership or military context. Example: "The general's power of command was evident as he led his troops into battle with confidence and clarity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

"And he is accustomed to the power of command".

The New York Times

"Your power of command with simple language was one of the magnificent things of our century," added Charles Bukowski.

The Guardian - Music

"There were indications that application of power of command, expert knowledge, and position were employed in a manner to suggest possible coercion," the report concluded.

The New Yorker

A dynasty needs first of all to be founded by one larger-than-life superhero or supervillain, hungry for the power of command.

The New York Times

Tall, of striking appearance, Cook almost immediately caught the attention of his superiors, and with excellent power of command, he was marked for rapid advancement.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"International recognition endows African state actors with a domestic power of command," wrote Pierre Englebert, a professor of politics at Pomona College, in his recent book "Africa: Unity, Sovereignty & Sorrow".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Users will sacrifice some legroom in the back row, and the power of commanding a glamorous black and silver tank with a professional chauffeur.

TechCrunch

Like the earlier doctrine, the new one emphasizes speed, maneuverability and the power of computerized command and control to multiply the force of arms.

The New York Times

After being stripped of the power of direct command, Joffre resigned on Dec. 26, 1916, and the same day was created a marshal of France.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Yet it's no surprise that the sort of person who would pursue the power of such command would also be motivated to pursue personal pleasure uninhibitedly.

The New Yorker

But it's the Hefneresque display of alpha male power -- power to command the services of some of the world's most desirable and highly valued women -- that leaves the biggest and most lasting impression.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "power of command" when you want to emphasize the authority and control someone possesses due to their position or skills. It is especially appropriate in military, organizational, and historical contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "power of command" when you actually mean "chain of command". The former refers to an individual's authority, while the latter describes the hierarchical structure itself.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "power of command" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically acts as a subject or object, denoting the authority or control held by an individual or entity. Ludwig examples confirm this usage in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "power of command" is a noun phrase denoting the authority or control someone possesses. Ludwig AI indicates it's grammatically correct and suitable for use in diverse contexts. While not exceedingly common, it appears frequently in news, encyclopedias, and wiki sources. Alternatives include "commanding influence" and "leadership authority". Be careful not to confuse it with "chain of command", which refers to the organizational structure rather than an individual's authority. Remember to emphasize the control and authority an individual possesses.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

power to direct

Underscores the ability to give instructions and guide actions.

commanding influence

Focuses on the degree of influence exerted through command, rather than the inherent authority.

right to command

Focuses on the justified or legal basis for having the power to command.

leadership authority

Emphasizes the legitimacy and acceptance of the power to lead.

capacity for leadership

Highlights the inherent potential or skill for leading and commanding.

exercise of authority

Highlights the practical application and demonstration of command.

controlling influence

Focuses on the act of control, implying a direct impact on outcomes.

ability to govern

Broader term referring to the skill of ruling and administering.

managerial control

Relates to the specific context of management and organizational hierarchy.

chain of command

Describes the hierarchical structure through which authority is exercised.

FAQs

What does "power of command" mean?

The "power of command" refers to the authority and control a person has, often due to their position or skills, enabling them to direct and influence others.

What can I say instead of "power of command"?

You can use alternatives like "commanding influence", "leadership authority", or "power to direct" depending on the specific context.

How is "power of command" different from "chain of command"?

"Power of command" refers to an individual's authority. "Chain of command", on the other hand, describes the hierarchical structure through which authority flows.

Is "power of command" formal or informal?

The phrase "power of command" is generally considered neutral to formal and can be used in various contexts, including news reporting, historical analyses, and organizational descriptions.