Words / B1

k-uh-MAHND/kəˈmɑːnd/

A command is an order, or the fact of being in control: give a command; in command; command of English (skill). Order is the everyday twin for an instruction; control is wider. Command as a verb: command a team; command respect. Commander is the person. Do not use command for a polite classroom request — that is ask or tell. Second-in-command is a set phrase.

Meaning

An order, or the fact of being in control (be in command).

Examples

• “The officer gave the command to stop.”
• “She has an excellent command of spoken English.”
• “He took command of the project when the director fell ill.”

Good to know

give a command. in command. Skill: command of English. Verb: command respect. Everyday instruction: order.

Near in meaning

order

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