Control
/kənˈtroʊl/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo have power over; to direct the behavior of.
/kənˈtroʊl/
To regulate, direct, or command a process or situation.
The pilot controlled the aircraft during the turbulence.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're the boss of something, like the steering wheel of a car. When you're in control, you're deciding what happens and where things go. Like, when you're playing a video game, you control your character!
👶 For kids: To be in charge of something and make it work the way you want.
More Examples
Can you control the volume on the stereo?
The company aims to control its spending this quarter.
How It's Used
"Engineers control the flow of electricity in the circuit."
"The government controls the nation's borders."
"She struggled to control her anger."
The power to influence or direct people's behavior or the course of events.
/kənˈtroʊl/
The act of regulating or the power to direct or command.
The government maintains control over the country's resources.
💡 Simply: Think of a remote control again! Control is having the ability to make things happen, or to stop things from happening. Like, your mom has control over bedtime!
👶 For kids: Being in charge of something.
More Examples
She struggled to regain control after the emotional outburst.
The control panel allows the operator to manage the machine.
How It's Used
"The company gained control of its finances."
"Air traffic control monitors all planes."
"He has a need for control in relationships."
Idioms & expressions
under control
Managed, regulated, or contained effectively; in a state of being handled well.
"The situation is finally under control."
lose control
To be unable to manage or direct something; to become unable to control one's behavior or emotions.
"She lost control and started yelling."
out of control
Impossible to manage or direct; not controlled; chaotic.
"The fire was quickly getting out of control."
From Old French *contrerolle*, from *contre-* (against) + *rolle* (roll, register). Originally referred to a duplicate record used to verify another; later broadened to encompass the act of checking, regulating, and dominating.
Originally used in a financial context to refer to checking of records, the meaning broadened over time to encompass various forms of regulation and power.
Memory tip
Think of a remote control – you use it to control the TV.
Word Origin
"Verification and regulation."