to impose control over

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to impose control over" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to express the idea of imposing a restraining factor or force over something in order to regulate it. For example, "The government is attempting to impose control over the citizens' use of social media."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

It is an attempt to impose control over life by molding the flesh.

The New York Times

In addition to the Houthi rebels, an al-Qaida branch in the south poses a constant threat as it tries to impose control over cities and towns.

The Guardian

To the surprise of many in the United States, the agreement seems to have helped moderate Chinese efforts to steal commercial secrets, although there is disagreement over whether this was because China was shamed and wanted to preserve honor, or alternatively used the agreement to impose control over unruly hackers.

The Washington Post

Yugoslavia sends in troops to impose control over Kosovo.

Los Angeles Times

To impose control over the object is, in both spirit and practice, the opposite of this.

Huffington Post

I think religion is a construct invented by humans to impose control over our animal selves, our 'savage' natures.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

And where are we heading to?" For much of the year, the EU agonized over how to impose controls on big banks in the euro zone.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Resolving the conflict would mean giving back sizable chunks of land to Palestinians and an end to Israel's military imposed control over the territory.

Huffington Post

Globalized DSMLs offer support for communicating relevant information, and for coordinating development activities and associated technologies within and across teams, in addition to providing support for imposing control over development artifacts produced by multiple teams.

Springer

Utah allows its citizens to carry concealed weapons virtually anywhere, but the Secret Service imposes control over venues where the president and vice president travel, which means no weapons allowed.

The New York Times

Understanding how the motor cortex imposes control over a simply patterned motor activity, such as whisker twitching, helps us to develop models for more complex movements like limb activities.

Biomedical Optics Express

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to impose control over", clearly define what is being controlled and the method of control to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify "to impose control over financial markets" rather than just "to impose control".

Common error

Avoid using "to impose control over" in contexts where influence or guidance is more appropriate. Imposing control implies a level of authority that may not always be suitable or accurate. Opt for softer terms like "influence" or "guide" when describing less forceful actions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to impose control over" functions primarily as an infinitive phrase expressing purpose. It describes the intended outcome of an action, namely, to establish or exert authority over something. Examples in Ludwig showcase its use in various contexts, such as political governance, personal behavior, and technical systems.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Academia

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to impose control over" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression that describes the intent to regulate or govern something. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its proper usage across diverse contexts, primarily in news media and scientific domains. It is important to use this phrase when direct authority and regulation are being established, differentiating it from softer approaches like "to influence". Related phrases offer alternative ways to express similar ideas, varying in their connotations and specific applications. Using the phrase thoughtfully, with clear context, can enhance the precision and impact of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

To exert authority over

Focuses on the exercise of power rather than the establishment of control.

To establish dominance over

Emphasizes achieving a superior position and influence.

To exercise dominion over

Implies a supreme rule or sovereignty, often over a territory or people.

To dominate

Implies a stronger, more forceful control, often suppressing opposition.

To take command of

Suggests assuming a leadership position with the power to direct.

To seize control of

Highlights the act of abruptly taking control, often in a forceful manner.

To gain mastery over

Focuses on acquiring skill and expertise to manage something effectively.

To regulate

Focuses on establishing rules and guidelines, specifically.

To govern

Emphasizes the act of ruling and managing a group or area.

To manage

Focuses on handling and directing resources or operations.

FAQs

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

You can use "to impose control over" to describe actions taken to regulate or govern something. For example, "The government sought to impose control over the internet" or "The manager aimed to impose control over the project timeline".

What are some alternatives to saying "to impose control over"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "to exert authority over", "to regulate", or "to govern". Each carries slightly different connotations of power and influence.

When is it appropriate to use "to impose control over"?

Use "to impose control over" when there is a deliberate act of establishing dominance or regulation. This phrase is suitable when discussing governance, management, or situations where authority is asserted.

What is the difference between "to impose control over" and "to influence"?

"To impose control over" suggests a direct exertion of authority and regulation, while "to influence" implies a more subtle and persuasive approach. Use "to impose control over" when discussing direct governance, and "to influence" when describing indirect persuasion or guidance.