that controls

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that controls" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when referring to something that has authority or influence over another thing. For example: "The software that controls the system is outdated." Alternative expressions include "that manages," "that regulates," and "that governs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Don't jerk on the controller that controls the claw.

WikiHow

that controls the depth of recursion.

Princeton University

"It really is something that controls odor".

The New York Times

The country that controls the moon is the country that controls the tides.

The New Yorker

A Vibrio cholerae autoinducer-receptor pair that controls biofilm formation.

Princeton University

The logic that controls a single elevator is shown below.

Cornell University

It is his administration that controls the authorities.

The New York Times

There isn't any kind of central control that controls everything.

The New Yorker

"It all pertains to the oligarchy that controls this country".

The New Yorker

The custom circuit board that controls the heaters burned out.

The Guardian

"Now it's economics that controls the politics".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "that controls", ensure the subject clearly identifies what is being controlled. This enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "that controls" with vague or undefined subjects. Always specify what exactly is being controlled to prevent confusion. For instance, instead of saying "the system that controls", specify "the software that controls the automated process".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that controls" functions as a relative clause, modifying a noun by specifying its function of managing or directing something. As Ludwig AI explains, it is a grammatically correct way to add detail.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "that controls" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase serving as a relative clause to specify management or direction. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and widespread applicability. Its neutral register makes it suitable for diverse contexts, with a strong presence in News & Media, Academic, and Scientific writing. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity by explicitly defining what is being controlled. Consider related phrases like "which governs" or "that manages" for nuanced variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

which governs

Replaces "that controls" with a more formal synonym, implying regulation or administration.

which dictates

Emphasizes the power to command or determine outcomes.

which regulates

Suggests a systematic approach to managing or directing something.

that manages

Focuses on the act of overseeing and directing operations or resources.

which commands

Implies authority and the ability to give orders.

that influences

Highlights the power to affect or shape outcomes without direct control.

which determines

Focuses on the power to decide or establish something definitively.

that directs

Implies guidance and leadership over a process or organization.

responsible for

Indicates accountability and management of a particular aspect or function.

in charge of

Indicates having control or authority over something.

FAQs

How do I use "that controls" in a sentence?

Use "that controls" to introduce a relative clause that specifies what something manages or directs. For example, "The algorithm "that controls surge pricing" has been kept secret".

What are some alternatives to "that controls"?

You can use alternatives like "which governs", "which dictates", or "that manages depending on the context".

Is "that controls" formal or informal?

"That controls" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. The level of formality depends more on the surrounding vocabulary and the overall tone of the writing.

What's the difference between "that controls" and "responsible for"?

"That controls" implies direct management or influence, whereas "responsible for" indicates accountability. "The software that controls the machine" suggests the software actively manages the machine's functions. "The engineer responsible for the machine" suggests the engineer is accountable for its performance.