the feeling of control

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'the feeling of control' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use the phrase to describe a situation in which someone has a sense of mastery or power over a certain situation. For example, you could say "After studying for a long time, I finally had the feeling of control when I aced the exam."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

One of them was the feeling of control that the environment telegraphed.

The New Yorker

At once he relished the feeling of control, allowing people to dance, fast or slow, only as and when he wanted.

The Guardian - Books

Positioned at that critical spot under the bull, Mr. Garnsey said, gave him the feeling of control for just a moment.

The New York Times

The feeling of control this creates is remarkable: things like knowing when you have time or don't feed into simple actions such as cushioning the ball.

The Guardian - Tech

"But the people who do it get to see that the quality is so much greater and the feeling of control over your smoking is so much more important than the marketing-driven obsession with smoking that Big Tobacco puts out".

The New York Times

The first point evaluates whether the feeling of control is the same as manual operation.

ROBOMECH Journal

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

The effect of synchronicity on anxiety was more dramatic than that of modality which indicated the feeling of controlling something would put more pressure on participants than the feeling of owning something.

Psicologia: Reflexão e Crítica

When we touch an object, for example, we do not exclusively have experience of it, but while touching and being touched we experience ourselves moving, including the feeling of controlling our own body in action.

SEP

A second dimension is associated with the feelings of control and involvement of informal caregivers.

BMC Health Services Research

The crowd met the feeling of careful control with jubilation.

The New Yorker

However, operators are sensitive to the feeling of the control speed.

ROBOMECH Journal

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing emotional states or subjective experiences, use "the feeling of control" to convey a sense of confidence, empowerment, and agency.

Common error

While appropriate for positive situations, avoid using "the feeling of control" when describing manipulative or domineering behavior. Instead, consider phrases like "a need for control" or "an urge to dominate."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the feeling of control" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. As supported by Ludwig, it typically describes a subjective experience related to agency, influence, and mastery.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the feeling of control" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, expressing a subjective sense of mastery, agency, and influence. It is most prevalent in news and scientific contexts, reflecting its relevance to both personal experiences and technical applications. When using the phrase, remember to consider its connotations and avoid overusing it in negative contexts. Alternative phrases like "a sense of agency" or "a feeling of influence" can offer more precise meanings depending on the situation. The phrase is best used to describe empowerment but should be avoided when the situation is more accurately about domination.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a feeling of influence

Highlights the ability to affect outcomes and decisions.

a sense of agency

Highlights the ability to act and make choices independently.

a feeling of self-determination

Emphasizes autonomy and the power to decide one's own fate.

a sense of mastery

Focuses on the expertise and skill aspect of control.

a sense of empowerment

Focuses on gaining confidence and strength.

the power to direct

Highlights the capacity to guide and lead.

a sense of command

Emphasizes authority and the ability to give orders.

a grip on the situation

Implies a firm hold and understanding of circumstances.

a sense of dominion

Suggests supreme authority and rule.

the ability to manipulate

Focuses on the ability to handle or control skillfully.

FAQs

How can I use "the feeling of control" in a sentence?

"The feeling of control" can be used to describe a sense of mastery or empowerment. For example, "Achieving this milestone gave her "the feeling of control" over her career path."

What is a good alternative to "the feeling of control"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "a sense of agency", "a sense of mastery", or "a feeling of influence".

What's the difference between "the feeling of control" and "the need for control"?

"The feeling of control" describes a state of being empowered and in charge, while "the need for control" suggests a desire or compulsion to dominate situations or people.

Is it always positive to have "the feeling of control"?

While generally positive, "the feeling of control" can be problematic if it leads to overbearing behavior or a lack of flexibility. Maintaining a balance between control and adaptability is crucial.