under the command

USAGE SUMMARY

'under the command' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you are referring to someone or something being in control of, or responsible for, a particular situation. For example, "The soldiers were under the command of their sergeant."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The Bounty, under the command of Capt.

Encyclopedia Britannica

British forces, under the command of Maj.

The New York Times

76 / under the command of 1st.

Yale University

The corps's Quds Force, under the command of Brig.

The New York Times

There are 128 lifters under the command of three capos.

The New Yorker

He sent three companies under the command of Maj.

Britannica

Azerbaijan's navy serves under the command of the CIS.

Britannica

Right now, we are under the command of the Americans.

The New York Times

The new force, under the command of Maj.

The New York Times

The character was under the command of an abusive colonel.

The New York Times

"Hydrography by the party under the command of Wm.

Yale University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a hierarchical structure, use "under the command" to clearly indicate who holds authority and responsibility. For example, "The battalion operated under the command of General Miller."

Common error

Avoid using "under the command" when you only mean someone is influenced by another. "Under the command" specifies a clear chain of authority, not just general influence or advice.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "under the command" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a noun or verb. It indicates who is in control or responsible for a particular entity or operation. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and widespread use.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

27%

Wiki

27%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Academia

7%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "under the command" is a common and grammatically sound way to express that someone or something is being controlled or directed by a specific individual or entity. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's generally considered correct for usage. It is frequently found in contexts like "News & Media", "Wiki" and "Encyclopedias", reflecting its use to describe hierarchical structures, especially in military and organizational scenarios. When writing, ensure you use "under the command" to precisely indicate authority and avoid confusing it with general influence or advice. Alternatives like "under the direction of" or "led by" can be used in contexts where strict control is less emphasized.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

under the direction of

This alternative emphasizes guidance and supervision rather than strict control.

under the authority of

This alternative highlights the legitimacy and power of the commanding figure.

at the behest of

This alternative suggests that someone is acting on orders or requests.

subject to the control of

This alternative emphasizes the power dynamic where one entity is controlled by another.

supervised by

This alternative implies oversight and responsibility for someone's actions.

led by

This alternative places focus on guidance and forward movement under a leader.

overseen by

This alternative highlights a broad scope of responsibility and monitoring.

governed by

This alternative points towards a system of rules and regulations being enforced.

managed by

This alternative relates to organizational aspects and practical oversight.

in the charge of

This alternative specifies who is responsible for someone or something.

FAQs

How do I use "under the command" in a sentence?

Use "under the command" to indicate that someone or something is being directly controlled or led by a specific person or entity. For example, "The troops were "under the command" of Captain Jones".

What's a good substitute for "under the command"?

Depending on the context, you can replace "under the command" with phrases like "under the direction of", "led by", or "supervised by".

Is it correct to say "under command of" instead of "under the command of"?

While "under command of" might be understood, "under the command of" is the more grammatically correct and widely accepted form. Using "the" makes the phrase more formal and precise.

When should I use "under the command" versus "in charge of"?

"Under the command" suggests a formal, hierarchical structure, often in military or organizational contexts. "In charge of" can be used more broadly to indicate responsibility or oversight without necessarily implying a strict chain of command. For example, a project manager is "in charge of" a project, while soldiers are "under the command" of an officer.