to have control over

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to have control over" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing authority, influence, or power over a person, situation, or object. Example: "The manager is expected to have control over the project's budget and timeline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Whatever companies tend to not have much control over or need to have control over will outsource activities to firms that they consider "less competing".

Wikipedia

He wants people to have control over their own lives.

The Guardian

"Men do not like women to have control over them".

The Guardian

How important is it to have control over death?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It's very important for Peter to have control over his own destiny".

The New York Times

"Well, it's hard for most of us not to have control over things," Dr. O'Mahony said.

The New York Times - Health

"For once I want to have control over what is happening to me.

The Guardian

We want people to have control over their own medical accounts.

The New York Times

"Of course the main purpose was to have control over the churches".

The New York Times

The traveler wants to have control over when they go online".

The New York Times

So no wonder he's keen to have control over his image.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "to have control over", ensure that the subject and object are clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify who has control and what they control.

Common error

Avoid assuming absolute control in situations where influence is more appropriate. Using "to have control over" suggests direct management, which may not always be accurate or achievable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to have control over" functions as an infinitive phrase acting as a verb complement or part of a larger verb phrase. It indicates the ability or power to manage, direct, or govern something. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and wide usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Science

19%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to have control over" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to indicate the ability to manage, direct, or influence something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is commonly found in news, media, and scientific contexts. While generally neutral in tone, it's crucial to consider the context and scope of control to ensure accuracy. Alternatives like "to be in charge of" or "to have influence on" may be more appropriate depending on the specific situation. By understanding its nuances and applying best practices, you can effectively communicate the desired level of authority or management.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to have power over

Emphasizes the ability to affect or change something, often related to resources or position.

to be in charge of

Focuses on responsibility and authority, suggesting a formal role.

to have authority over

Highlights the power and right to give orders and enforce compliance.

to have command of

Focuses on the ability to direct and manage resources or forces, particularly in a military or structured environment.

to be at the helm of

Implies leadership and direction, often used in organizational contexts.

to have influence on

Suggests a more subtle form of control, affecting decisions without direct command.

to be the master of

Indicates expertise and complete command, implying a high level of skill and knowledge.

to exercise dominion over

Suggests complete control and ownership, often in a territorial or abstract sense.

to be able to manipulate

Implies skillful management, sometimes with a negative connotation of indirect or artful influence.

to dictate

Suggests absolute authority and the power to make decisions without input from others.

FAQs

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

You can use "to have control over" to indicate the ability to manage or direct something. For example, "The project manager needs "to have control over" the budget".

What are some alternatives to "to have control over"?

Alternatives include phrases like "to be in charge of", "to have authority over", or "to have influence on", depending on the specific context.

Is it always appropriate to use "to have control over"?

While grammatically correct, "to have control over" might not always be the most accurate phrase. Consider whether influence, management, or authority is more fitting for the situation.

What's the difference between "to have control over" and "to have influence on"?

"To have control over" implies direct management and authority, while "to have influence on" suggests a more subtle, indirect effect on decisions or outcomes.