seize control

USAGE SUMMARY

"seize control" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to mean that someone or something has taken command or power over something else. For example: "The new CEO seized control of the company and began to implement her changes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Sports

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

You do not seize control at Masa.

The New York Times - Food

But now, he was ready to seize control.

The New York Times

The Commons needs to seize control of its core functions.

The Guardian

Yet the Jayhawks were never able to seize control.

The New York Times - Sports

By doing that, Obama could seize control of the debate.

The New York Times

"People have to seize control of the situation and make necessary changes," Mr. Pitt added.

The New York Times

Could a hacker indeed seize control of the nation's air traffic control system?

The New York Times

But the resilient Williams immediately broke back to seize control once again.

The New York Times - Sports

The New Yorker, February 14 , 2005P. 150 You do not seize control at Masa.

The New Yorker

That day, for Andy Roddick and his peers to seize control, will come soon.

The New York Times - Sports

Hadim has led the fightback against numerous attempts by hardliners to seize control of Barelvi mosques.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context: "Seize control" can imply a forceful or even aggressive action, so ensure it aligns with the intended tone. In situations where a more collaborative or gradual approach is desired, alternatives like "gain control" or "take charge" might be more suitable.

Common error

Avoid using "seize control" in scenarios where collaboration or shared leadership is desired. This phrase implies a singular, assertive action that can undermine teamwork. Opt for phrases like "facilitate leadership" or "encourage shared responsibility" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seize control" functions primarily as a verb phrase, where 'seize' is a transitive verb requiring a direct object ('control'). As Ludwig AI explains, it describes the act of taking command or authority, often implying a decisive or forceful action.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Sports

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Science

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "seize control" is a grammatically correct and very commonly used phrase that indicates taking command or authority, often with a sense of forcefulness or decisiveness. As shown by Ludwig, the phrase is used in a variety of contexts, most frequently in News & Media, Formal & Business settings, and Sports. The phrase is generally neutral in register, though its tone can vary depending on the context. Alternatives like "take command" or "gain control" offer similar meanings with slight nuances. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability, making it a reliable phrase for expressing the act of taking charge.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gain control

Focuses on the process of acquiring control.

take command

A more direct and straightforward way of saying "seize control".

assert control

Highlights the act of confidently establishing control.

wrest control

Suggests a struggle or effort in taking control.

take charge

A more informal way to express taking control, often in a leadership context.

assume authority

Implies a formal assumption of power or control.

take over

Suggests replacing someone or something else in control.

establish dominance

Emphasizes the resulting state of having control and power.

dominate

A single word conveying the idea of having ultimate control.

arrogate to oneself

Signifies taking control without justification or right.

FAQs

How can I use "seize control" in a sentence?

"Seize control" is used to indicate a forceful or decisive taking of command. For example, "The rebels attempted to seize control of the government" or "The company acted quickly to seize control of the market share".

What are some alternatives to "seize control"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "take command", "assume authority", or "gain control".

What is the difference between "seize control" and "gain control"?

"Seize control" implies a sudden, decisive action, while "gain control" suggests a gradual process of acquiring authority.

When is it appropriate to use "seize control"?

It's appropriate when you want to convey a sense of urgency or forcefulness in taking charge of a situation. It's often used in contexts involving conflict, competition, or critical decision-making.