taking command

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "taking command" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone is assuming control or leadership over a situation or group. Example: "During the crisis, she stepped up, taking command of the team and guiding them through the challenges."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A reviewer from the network said, "Commander is another smash [where]... Kelly's taking command!

Wikipedia

Barely a month after taking command, General Dunlavey flew to Afghanistan and Kuwait to complain directly to military commanders there.

The New York Times

Nevertheless, Taking Command illuminates clearly the political, as well as practical, obstacles facing military commanders in democracies.

The Guardian - Books

He died taking command, as he had always done.

Independent

"Taking command of Alpha Company was one of the crowning achievements in my life".

The New York Times

After taking command, Suleimani strengthened relationships in Lebanon, with Mughniyeh and with Hassan Nasrallah, Hezbollah's chief.

The New Yorker

To order Taking Command for £16 (RRP £20) go to bookshop.theguardian.com or call 0330 333 6846.

The Guardian - Books

The secret is taking command of the agenda, said Mr. Rumsfeld.

The New York Times

Taking command of the era that defined her, Madonna became a New Dylan, too.

The New York Times

Since taking command on June 1, Sather has made three major decisions.

The New York Times - Sports

Since taking command of the army, he has continued his practice of never granting interviews.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "taking command", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being commanded. Specificity enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "taking command" when the action is merely about managing a task or process; reserve it for situations involving genuine authority and leadership over people or resources.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "taking command" functions as a verbal phrase, specifically a present participle phrase acting as a noun modifier or part of a continuous verb tense. Ludwig AI indicates it's commonly used to describe an ongoing process of assuming control or leadership.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Wiki

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "taking command" is a versatile verbal phrase used to describe the process of assuming control or leadership. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically sound and widely used. Analysis of example sentences indicates its frequent occurrence in news and media, encyclopedias and wiki articles, reflecting a neutral register. Related phrases include "assuming control" and "taking charge", offering slight variations in meaning. When using "taking command", clarity is key; ensure the subject of command is well-defined.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

assuming control

Focuses on the act of gaining control rather than the initiation.

taking charge

Emphasizes a proactive and decisive approach to control.

seizing authority

Emphasizes a more forceful or decisive acquisition of power.

assuming leadership

Highlights the role of leader rather than simply controlling an object or thing.

stepping up to lead

Conveys a sense of volunteering or rising to the occasion.

taking the reins

Metaphorically describes assuming control, implying guidance and direction.

gaining control

Suggests a gradual process of achieving control.

establishing authority

Focuses on creating a sense of legitimate power.

assuming responsibility

Highlights the accountability that comes with control.

heading up

Informal way of expressing the act of leading something.

FAQs

How is "taking command" used in a sentence?

It's used to describe the act of assuming control or leadership, like in the sentence, "After the captain's injury, the first mate was "taking command" of the ship".

What can I say instead of "taking command"?

You can use alternatives like "assuming control", "taking charge", or "assuming leadership" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "take command" instead of "taking command"?

Both are correct, but "take command" is the infinitive form while "taking command" is the present participle. Use "take command" when referring to the action in general, and "taking command" when describing an ongoing action.

What is the difference between "taking command" and "assuming responsibility"?

"Taking command" specifically refers to assuming a position of authority, while "assuming responsibility" implies accepting accountability for something, even without necessarily being in a leadership role.