seize control of

USAGE SUMMARY

"seize control of" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe someone taking control of something, either literally or figuratively. For example: "He seized control of the project and quickly gathered the team's support."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The Commons needs to seize control of its core functions.

The Guardian

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

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

The Guardian

Analysts say it is likely Volkswagen will now push harder to seize control of Porsche.

The New York Times

Abendanon's first-half double gave Clermont the springboard to seize control of Pool 5.

The Guardian - Sport

The arrests also allowed members of Putin's clique to seize control of Yukos.

The New Yorker

There were prophecies that these faceless funders of attack ads would seize control of American democracy.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

They seized control of their lives.

The New York Times

It seized control of the project.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "seize control of", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being controlled and from whom or what it is being taken. For example, "The rebels seized control of the capital city."

Common error

Avoid using "seize control of" when a gentler approach is being taken. The phrase implies a forceful or decisive action. Use "assume control of" for a more gradual or agreed-upon transfer of power.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seize control of" functions as a verb phrase, typically used as a predicate to indicate that a subject has forcefully or decisively taken command or authority over something. Ludwig confirms its proper usage across different contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Formal & Business

19%

Science

13%

Less common in

Wiki

9%

Encyclopedias

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "seize control of" is a widely recognized and grammatically sound expression used to describe the act of forcefully or decisively taking command. As confirmed by Ludwig, its usage spans across news, business, and even scientific domains, indicating its versatility. While alternatives like "take command of" or "assume authority over" exist, this phrase carries a unique sense of urgency and power. Remember to use it accurately, ensuring the context aligns with the forceful nature of the expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

take charge of

Highlights assuming responsibility and direction.

take command of

Focuses on assuming a position of authority, often in a military or hierarchical context.

secure authority over

Focuses on obtaining and solidifying power.

assume authority over

Emphasizes the act of taking responsibility and power over something.

gain dominance over

Highlights achieving a superior position or influence.

dominate

A shorter alternative that means to have control over.

wrest control from

Implies a struggle or forceful taking of control from another party.

usurp control of

Indicates taking control illegitimately or by force.

establish supremacy over

Suggests a more permanent and unchallenged control.

get a grip on

Implies gaining understanding and management of a situation.

FAQs

What does "seize control of" mean?

The phrase "seize control of" means to take control of something quickly, decisively, and often forcefully. It suggests a sudden acquisition of power or authority.

What can I say instead of "seize control of"?

You can use alternatives like "take command of", "assume authority over", or "take charge of" depending on the context.

Is "seize control of" formal or informal?

The phrase "seize control of" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although it carries a sense of urgency and decisiveness.

How to use "seize control of" in a sentence?

Example: "The opposition party moved swiftly to "seize control of" the narrative after the scandal broke."