thorough command

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "thorough command" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a deep and comprehensive understanding or mastery of a subject or skill. Example: "She has a thorough command of the Spanish language, allowing her to converse fluently with native speakers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

To navigate the treacherous, autonomous nation that is Pinterland requires a thorough command of this exotic tongue.

The New York Times

If this sounds like something better suited to a lectern, you have underestimated Mr. Albee's thorough command of the tricks of his trade, both subtle and shamelessly flashy.

The New York Times

The work attested to Ms. Snider's thorough command of musical mood setting, organically integrating the structural economy and direct impact of pop songs with deft, subtle orchestrations that lent emotional gravity and nuance.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

As his uncle's protégé, William traveled with his relative thorough various commands, serving during the American Revolutionary War off the Home, Lisbon and Newfoundland Stations.

Wikipedia

Mr. Muti's involvement with the music was so infectious, his command so thorough and the playing of the Philharmonic so brilliant that it was impossible not to be swept away.

The New York Times - Arts

But there was never a room I saw him in — at the Guild, at the Academy, at Sundance, at Musso — where he didn't command immediate and thorough respect.

The New York Times

A thorough revamping of the high command is especially complex at a time of persistent challenges on so many fronts, like the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, the threats from Iran and North Korea and the challenges from Russia and China, all while facing the constant risk of a terrorist attack.

The New York Times

Even though these serious conditions comprise far <1% of all types of headache, a newly onset severe headache commands extra attention and thorough diagnosis [56 58].

The Journal of Headache and Pain

The Quran commands Muslims to conduct a thorough investigation of its meaning (4 95) and, as Manji rightly noted, to repeatedly reflect (2 220) and meditate (4 83).

Huffington Post

For best performance, the user has to find the ideal queue-device mapping at command queue creation time, an effort that requires a thorough understanding of the underlying device architectures and kernels in the program.

Parallel Computing

In addition to their thorough treatment of each subject, extensive referencing shows clearly the authors' command of current and past literature (in some instances, more space is devoted to references than to text).

Emerging Infectious Diseases

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for clarity, ensure the subject of your "thorough command" is explicitly stated. For instance, instead of simply saying 'She has a thorough command', specify 'She has a thorough command of the English language'.

Common error

Avoid using "thorough command" to describe a basic or intermediate skill level. This phrase implies a high degree of expertise, so reserve it for situations where the individual genuinely demonstrates comprehensive knowledge or control.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "thorough command" functions as a descriptor, indicating a high level of proficiency or mastery in a particular skill or area of knowledge. Ludwig provides examples of its use in contexts such as musical mood setting and language proficiency, highlighting its role in conveying expertise.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "thorough command" is a descriptor used to indicate a high level of proficiency or expertise. Ludwig AI confirms it is correct and usable in written English. While relatively rare, it appears in news, media, and scientific contexts. It's best used to describe genuine mastery and should be followed by the specific area of expertise. Related phrases include "complete mastery" and "deep understanding". When writing, make sure to state the subject of your "thorough command" explicitly and avoid using it to describe basic or intermediate skill levels.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

complete mastery

Emphasizes the completeness of skill or knowledge.

comprehensive grasp

Highlights the breadth and depth of understanding.

deep understanding

Focuses on the depth of comprehension.

expert control

Stresses the skill in managing or directing something.

strong command

Implies a robust and effective level of control or knowledge.

solid mastery

Indicates a firm and reliable grasp of a subject or skill.

profound understanding

Highlights an understanding that goes beyond the superficial.

full competence

Focuses on having all the necessary abilities.

extensive knowledge

Emphasizes the breadth of information known.

masterful handling

Highlights skill and finesse in dealing with something.

FAQs

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

You can use "thorough command" to describe someone's expertise in a particular subject or skill. For example, "The conductor displayed a thorough command of the orchestra, leading them with precision and passion."

What are some alternatives to "thorough command"?

Alternatives include "complete mastery", "deep understanding", or "expert control". Each alternative emphasizes a slightly different aspect of proficiency; for example, "complete mastery" focuses on the comprehensive nature of the skill, while "deep understanding" focuses on the comprehension aspect.

Is it better to say "thorough command of" or "thorough understanding of"?

Both are correct, but they imply slightly different things. "Thorough command of" often suggests an active control or skillful use, whereas "thorough understanding of" emphasizes comprehension and knowledge. Choose the phrase that best fits the context.

What does it mean to have a "thorough command" of a subject?

To have a "thorough command" of a subject means to have a comprehensive and detailed understanding, as well as the ability to apply that knowledge effectively. It implies a high level of expertise and competence.