Controlling
/kənˈtroʊlɪŋ/
Definitions
2 meaningsThe act of directing or having command of; exercising restraint over; the process of regulating or governing something.
/kənˈtroʊlɪŋ/
Exercising authority or direction over; to manage or regulate
The company is controlling the production process to ensure efficiency.
💡 Simply: It's like being in charge! Imagine you're playing a game and you decide what happens; you are controlling the game.
👶 For kids: Making sure things happen the way you want them to.
More Examples
By controlling the temperature, the scientists achieved better results.
He's good at controlling his impulses.
How It's Used
"The manager is controlling the project budget."
"The government is accused of controlling the media."
"She's struggling with controlling her emotions."
Having or exercising control or authority; inclined to control others.
/kənˈtroʊlɪŋ/
Exercising control or authority over; dominant or domineering
His controlling nature often caused arguments in the family.
💡 Simply: It's like someone who always wants to be in charge and make all the decisions, maybe even when they shouldn't. Think of a friend who always decides where you go and what you do.
👶 For kids: Someone who always wants to be the boss and tell everyone what to do.
More Examples
The controlling shareholder can make all the important decisions.
She found it difficult to deal with her controlling ex-partner.
How It's Used
"She has a controlling personality."
"The controlling shareholder has the most influence."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
Under control
Managed successfully; not causing problems.
"Don't worry, the situation is under control."
Loss of control
A situation where one is unable to manage something effectively; no longer able to direct or restrain something.
"The accident was caused by a loss of control."
From Old French *contrerouler* (to check, verify), from *contre-* (against) + *rouler* (to roll, govern). The modern usage developed in the late 18th and 19th centuries.
The word 'control' and its derivatives have a history of use in legal, political, and mechanical contexts, evolving from the idea of checking and verifying to include management and regulation.
Memory tip
Think of a pilot at the control panel of an airplane - they are controlling the aircraft.
Word Origin
"to check, verify, govern"