take command

USAGE SUMMARY

'take command' is correct and usable in written English.
This can be used when you want to say that someone has taken control or authority over a situation. For example: The soldiers were in disarray until the Lieutenant Colonel arrived and took command of the situation.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But Americans still want their commander-in-chief to take command.

The Economist

The next year, he was appointed commander-in-chief of the Continental Army and rode to Cambridge to take command.

The New Yorker

You would see him take command.

The New York Times - Sports

She had the ability to take command of a situation and help others through difficult times.

The New York Times

The other McCain senior staff member is more emphatic: "The reality is he didn't take command.

The New York Times - Magazine

Some advisers want to take command, and we need them to".

The New Yorker

Zhang Zhidong, one of the leading hawks, was appointed to take command of the land forces.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But now I am being asked to take command of a four-thousand-pound vehicle.

The New Yorker

But when he did take command, the economy was already hitting rock bottom.

Independent

Turning toward Delany, he then asked, "Will you take command?" Delany agreed.

The New York Times

But next year, he said, he will take command of Cunard's newest liner, the Queen Victoria.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "take command", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being commanded. Specificity enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "take command" when a more direct verb would be more effective. Overusing the phrase in passive constructions can weaken your writing. For example, instead of "Command was taken by the general", use "The general took command".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take command" functions as a verb phrase, indicating the act of assuming control or authority. As Ludwig AI explains, it describes the action of stepping into a position of leadership.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "take command" is a verb phrase widely used to describe the act of assuming control or authority. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in written English. Its usage spans various contexts, with a higher frequency in News & Media and Wiki sources. While generally neutral in register, the specific context can influence its formality. When writing, ensure clarity by specifying what is being commanded and avoid overusing it in passive constructions. Consider alternatives like "assume control" or "take charge" depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

take charge

This alternative is a common synonym, highlighting the act of assuming responsibility.

assume control

This alternative focuses on the act of gaining control.

assume leadership

This alternative emphasizes the role of leading others.

seize authority

This alternative emphasizes the act of grasping or taking authority quickly.

exert control

This alternative highlights the exercise of control.

establish dominance

This alternative conveys the idea of creating a position of power or control.

get a grip

This alternative is a more informal way of saying to get control.

dominate proceedings

This alternative shows how to obtain leadership in events.

be in control

This alternative shows that something has the power in a specific situation.

step up to the plate

This alternative shows the personification of taking control.

FAQs

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

You can use "take command" to indicate assuming control or authority, as in "The captain had to take command of the ship during the storm".

What's a formal alternative to "take command"?

A more formal alternative to "take command" is "assume control", often used in professional or official contexts.

Is it correct to say "taking command"?

Yes, "taking command" is the present participle form, used in continuous tenses or as a gerund. For example, "Taking command was his first act as leader".

What's the difference between "take command" and "take charge"?

"Take command" often implies a formal assumption of authority, especially in hierarchical settings, while "take charge" can refer to a more general assumption of responsibility in any situation.