Dominate
/ˈdɒmɪneɪt/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo have a controlling influence or power over someone or something.
/ˈdɒmɪneɪt/
To have a commanding influence on; control.
The company dominates the industry with its innovative products.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're playing a game and are way better than everyone else. You're dominating! It means you're in control and winning.
👶 For kids: To be the boss or control something or someone.
More Examples
The taller player dominated the game in rebounds and points.
Her loud voice dominated the conversation.
The fear of failure dominated his thoughts.
How It's Used
"The ruling party dominates the political landscape."
"The team dominated the game from start to finish."
"The company dominates its market share."
To be the most prominent, important, or striking feature of something.
/ˈdɒmɪneɪt/
To be the most important or conspicuous feature of.
The towering skyscraper dominates the city skyline.
💡 Simply: If a giant building is the first thing you see in a city, it dominates the view. It's the most obvious and important thing.
👶 For kids: To be the biggest or most important part of something.
More Examples
The actor's performance dominated the play.
The blue color dominated the painting.
The problem of pollution still dominates the news.
How It's Used
"The cathedral dominates the city's skyline."
"The mountains dominate the landscape."
Idioms & expressions
dominate the conversation
To talk so much that other people can't speak or contribute.
"He tends to dominate the conversation, often interrupting others."
dominate someone's thoughts
To be the most important thing someone is thinking about.
"The fear of failing dominated his thoughts."
From Latin *dominari* 'to rule, control,' from *dominus* 'lord, master'.
Used in literature and politics since the 16th century to describe control or influence.
Memory tip
Think of a 'dome' covering everything, controlling it.