to acquire control over

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to acquire control over" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where one entity seeks to gain authority or dominance over another entity, such as in business, politics, or personal relationships. Example: "The company aims to acquire control over the market by implementing innovative strategies and expanding its product line."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

In general, he argues that the more difficult it is to acquire control over a state, the easier it is to hold on to it.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Their tentative agreement calls for the consortium to pay more than $800 million to acquire control over all three companies, including Hyundai Securities, Hyundai Investment Trust and Securities and Hyundai Investment Trust Management.

The New York Times

The Spanish conquest of the Americas sparked a theological, political, and ethical debate about the use of military force to acquire control over foreign lands.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

A special committee of the Los Angeles retailer's board made the move after Charney stated his "intent to acquire control or influence over the company" in a Friday filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission, American Apparel said in a statement released Saturday.

Los Angeles Times

Resentment was growing in Romania over the readiness of established EU members to restrict membership benefits after Romania had agreed to rapidly liberalize its economy, enabling top western European firms to acquire control of many of its strategic industries.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Well-connected types, Mr Fox finds, can acquire control over swathes of land thanks to their political connections.

The Economist

In the following period the Greeks of the city were persecuted by the Albanian nationalist elements that aimed at acquiring control over Korçë.

Wikipedia

Similarly, S. oneidensis ArcA may acquire controls over new genes once an ArcA-binding site emerged in their promoter regions through evolution.

BMC Genomics

If April acquired control over the core, it could be paid for protecting it.

The New York Times - Science

The Sayyids thus earned the offices of vizier and chief bakhshī and acquired control over the affairs of state.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In the 14th century, German Hanseatic merchants acquired control over the city's trade; their influence in a weakened Norway lasted into the 17th century.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about business or strategic endeavors, using "to acquire control over" can clearly express the intent to gain authority or ownership. Ensure the context clarifies what is being controlled, be it a company, market share, or resources.

Common error

Avoid using "to acquire control over" when you mean physical restraint or management. The phrase usually implies gaining authority or ownership, not simply managing something. Use alternatives like "to manage" or "to restrain" if the context is more about direct handling.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to acquire control over" functions as an infinitive phrase expressing purpose. It typically introduces a goal or intention, indicating what someone or something is trying to achieve. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to acquire control over" effectively communicates the intent to gain authority or dominance in various contexts. Ludwig confirms that it's grammatically correct and usable, although not extremely common. It frequently appears in news, encyclopedias, and scientific sources, often related to business strategies, political maneuvers, or resource management. Alternative phrases like "to gain control of" or "to seize control of" offer nuanced variations depending on the specific context. Ensure clarity in your writing by specifying what is being controlled, and avoid misusing it to describe physical restraint.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to gain control of

Focuses more on the act of gaining control, omitting the 'acquire' aspect.

to assume command of

Emphasizes taking a leadership role or position of authority.

to seize control of

Suggests a more forceful or abrupt taking of control.

to secure dominance over

Highlights the establishment of a dominant position.

to establish authority over

Focuses on creating a recognized and legitimate power.

to exert influence over

Implies a more subtle and persuasive form of control.

to take charge of

Indicates assuming responsibility and direction.

to dominate

A single verb that expresses the outcome of gaining control.

to monopolize

Implies exclusive control, often in a business context.

to have the upper hand

Focuses on having an advantage or superior position.

FAQs

What does "to acquire control over" mean?

The phrase "to acquire control over" means to gain the power, authority, or ability to direct or dominate something, such as a company, market, or situation.

How can I use "to acquire control over" in a sentence?

You can use "to acquire control over" in sentences like: "The company sought "to gain control of" its competitor through a merger" or "The rebels aimed "to seize control of" the capital city".

What are some synonyms for "to acquire control over"?

Some synonyms include "to gain control of", "to take command of", or "to establish authority over", depending on the context.

In what situations is it appropriate to use "to acquire control over"?

It is appropriate in formal and professional contexts, such as business negotiations, political strategies, or discussions about power dynamics. It's less common in informal conversation.