command

An instruction given by someone with authority that others are expected to obey.

• They obeyed her command.
• The officer gave the command to leave.
• He shouted commands above the noise.

How to use it: command to do something (The soldiers obeyed the command to retreat.)

Similar words: order, instruction

Common phrases: give a command, obey a command, command to stop

The power or official position to control people and give orders.

• She is in command here.
• The captain took command of the ship.
• Orders passed down the chain of command.

How to use it: in command of someone/something (She is in command of the rescue team.); take command of something (He took command of the operation.)

Similar words: control, authority

Common phrases: in command, take command, chain of command

An instruction that tells a computer or program to perform a task.

• Type a command here.
• This command copies the file.
• I entered the wrong commands by mistake.

Similar words: instruction

Common phrases: enter a command, run a command, command line, computer command

A good understanding of something and the ability to use it well.

• His command of English is excellent.
• The job requires a good command of basic maths.
• She showed impressive command of the subject.

How to use it: command of something (She has a good command of French.)

Similar words: mastery

Common phrases: command of english, good command, excellent command

The people or place responsible for directing a military operation.

• Command approved the plan.
• The message reached central command before dawn.
• Regional commands coordinated the rescue operation.

Similar words: headquarters

Common phrases: central command, military command, regional command

To tell someone to do something using your authority over them.

• He commanded us to stop.
• The captain commanded the sailors to return.
• She commanded that the doors be closed.

How to use it: command someone to do something (The officer commanded the soldiers to wait.); command that someone do something (She commanded that everyone remain silent.)

Similar words: order, direct

Common phrases: command someone to, command someone directly, command that someone, command someone firmly

To get respect, attention, or a similar response because of your qualities or importance.

• Her confidence commands respect.
• His powerful voice commanded attention throughout the room.
• The team’s achievements command admiration around the world.

Similar words: earn, inspire

Common phrases: command respect, command attention, command admiration