sense of command

USAGE SUMMARY

"sense of command" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to convey a sense of authority and control. For example, "He had a strong sense of command, controlling the room with just his presence."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

And they did not have that sense of command.

The New York Times

Although he limped slightly from an old hip injury, he exuded a sense of command.

The New Yorker

He was tall, physically very strong, with a natural sense of command.

Independent

The Webb campaign's strategy had been to run a race reflecting his biography, his sense of command.

The New Yorker

Curry's droll King Arthur has a plummy, stentorian voice, a royal paunch, and a stolid, somewhat bewildered sense of command.

The New Yorker

He takes refuge in the swagger of his splenetic punctilio, which imposes a sense of command on a life that is transparently hapless.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

It was, say these political wise men and women, a sense of misguided command.

The New York Times

Her style offers something of a forerunning blend of Greta Garbo and Joan Crawford, with the terrifying intensity of her performance matching an impenetrable and implacable mystery; her sense of physical command seems nonetheless wildly spontaneous; her dramatic expressivity appears painfully impulsive.

The New Yorker

Others argue that the multiplicity of the eyes and patterns in robotically logical but visually discordant structures are typical of an algorithm making sense of a command, supplementing their arguments with CNN image classification papers with previous, similar visual examples.

Vice

In the end, they are about the inner struggle to make sense of ancient commands and fit them into modern life.

The New York Times

He said there were four command posts set up during the incident and no sense of who had command once the LAPD rolled in.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "sense of command" to describe individuals who naturally inspire confidence and are able to effectively take charge in various situations.

Common error

Avoid using "sense of command" to describe someone who is simply overbearing or dictatorial; ensure their leadership is perceived as effective and respected, not just forceful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sense of command" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as the object of a verb or preposition. It describes an attribute or quality related to leadership and authority, as Ludwig's examples clearly demonstrate.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sense of command" is a noun phrase used to describe the capacity to inspire confidence and exert control, often associated with effective leadership. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and conveys a sense of authority. It is commonly found in News & Media and Science, maintaining a neutral register. When using the phrase, ensure it accurately reflects a respected and effective leadership style, rather than simple dominance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

commanding presence

Underscores the ability to dominate and control a situation or environment through one's presence.

air of authority

Emphasizes the perceived or displayed aura of authority someone projects.

feeling of authority

Focuses on the subjective experience of having authority, rather than the outward display of it.

aura of control

Focuses on the subtle, intangible feeling of being in control that someone emanates.

assurance of control

Emphasizes the confidence and certainty in one's ability to maintain control.

leadership presence

Highlights the impact and influence a leader has when present.

skill in leadership

Highlights the competence and expertise in leading others.

knack for management

Focuses on a natural talent or aptitude for managing people and resources.

talent for direction

Highlights a natural ability to guide and direct others effectively.

capacity for governance

Emphasizes the capability and competence in governing or leading an organization or group.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "sense of command" in a sentence?

Use "sense of command" to describe someone who naturally exudes authority and can take control of situations effectively. For example, "The general's "commanding presence" instilled confidence in the troops."

What are some alternatives to "sense of command"?

You can use alternatives such as "leadership presence", "air of authority", or ""commanding presence"" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "sense of command" formal or informal?

"Sense of command" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it is generally more common in professional or news reporting settings.

What's the difference between "sense of command" and "sense of control"?

"Sense of command" typically refers to the ability to lead and direct others, while "sense of control" refers to the feeling of being in charge of a situation or oneself. While related, they emphasize different aspects of authority and agency.