to secure control

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to secure control" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where one is discussing the act of gaining or maintaining authority or dominance over something. Example: "The company implemented new strategies to secure control over the market."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Ennahda may well have squandered its best opportunity to secure control of Tunisia.

The Guardian

managed to secure control of four Ministries, including the Ministry of Immigration and Integration.

The New Yorker

He also wants Iraq to secure control of the principal source of Arab wealth: oil.

The New York Times

Not until 1995 were Brink's-Mat solicitors able to secure control of Feberion and arrange the sale of the property.

The Guardian

Some relocation programs have aimed to create Arab majorities near oil fields, to secure control of economic assets.

The New York Times

It also booked €6.84 billion during the period from the financial derivatives it used to secure control of Volkswagen.

The New York Times

This has given them advanced AI capabilities, helping to secure control over a crucial part of the global digital infrastructure.

The Guardian - Opinion

As commerce expanded, the Portuguese strove to secure control of trade with the Moluccas the Spice Islands.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Fighter aircraft, aircraft designed primarily to secure control of essential airspace by destroying enemy aircraft in combat.

Encyclopedia Britannica

We started this operation in order to give Nasser a black eye - if we could, to overthrow him - but, in any case, to secure control of the canal.

The Guardian

Yesterday the commander of US and Nato forces, General Stanley McChrystal, said he needed more time to secure control of Kandahar, the Taliban's heartland in southern Afghanistan.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to secure control", ensure that the context clearly indicates what is being controlled and why securing that control is important. Clarity prevents ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "to secure control" excessively in passive constructions. Active voice often makes the writing more direct and impactful. For example, instead of "Control was secured by the company", write "The company secured control".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to secure control" functions primarily as an infinitive phrase indicating purpose. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase is correct and usable. It is often used to express the reason behind an action, aiming to gain or ensure authority over something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Encyclopedias

28%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Science

9%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to secure control" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that indicates purpose, specifically the intention to gain or maintain authority. As noted by Ludwig AI, it is correct and usable in a variety of contexts. Analysis of its usage reveals a neutral-to-professional register, with prominent occurrences in News & Media and Encyclopedias. While alternatives such as "to gain control" or "to maintain control" exist, the specific nuance of "to secure control" emphasizes ensuring that control is firmly held. Writers should be mindful of using active voice when possible and ensuring contextual clarity. This expression is clearly used across various reputable sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to gain control

Focuses on the act of acquiring control, rather than ensuring it is held.

to establish control

Emphasizes setting up or creating a system of control, rather than just obtaining it.

to maintain control

Highlights the continuation of control, assuming it's already in place.

to assert control

Implies a forceful or decisive act of taking control.

to seize control

Suggests a sudden or opportunistic grab for control.

to take command

Emphasizes assuming a leadership role and directing actions.

to dominate

Implies a more absolute and powerful form of control.

to monopolize

Focuses on having exclusive control over something.

to safeguard control

Stresses protecting existing control from potential threats or losses.

to ensure dominance

Highlights the act of guaranteeing a superior or prevailing position.

FAQs

How can I use "to secure control" in a sentence?

You can use "to secure control" to describe the act of gaining or ensuring authority over something. For example, "The military operation aimed "to secure control" of the region".

What are some alternatives to "to secure control"?

Some alternatives include "to gain control", "to establish control", or "to maintain control", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "secure control" or "gain control"?

"Secure control" implies ensuring control is firmly held, while "gain control" simply means acquiring it. The best choice depends on whether you're emphasizing the act of acquisition or the state of having secured authority.

What is the difference between "to secure control" and "to assert control"?

"To secure control" generally refers to the act of obtaining or ensuring authority, while "to assert control" suggests a more forceful or decisive act of taking command.