Control

Definition

Control is both a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to the power to influence or direct behavior, processes, or events. As a verb, it means to exercise authority, restrain, or regulate something or someone.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kənˈtroʊl/
• Respelling: kuhn-TROHL

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kənˈtrəʊl/
• Respelling: kuhn-TROHL

Etymology

The word "control" originates from the Medieval Latin "contrarotulare," which means "to check by counter roll," referring to a register or record. It passed into English from Old French in the late Middle Ages, gaining meanings related to authority and regulation.

Derivatives

• Controllable (adjective)
• Controller (noun)
• Controlled (adjective)
• Uncontrolled (adjective)
• Controlling (adjective)

Synonyms

• Manage
• Regulate
• Direct

Antonyms

• Freedom
• Chaos
• Neglect

Usage

As a noun, "control" often denotes the power or authority to manage or direct, such as in "He has full control over the project." As a verb, it describes the act of managing, restraining, or regulating, as in "She tried to control her emotions."

Related Terms

• Authority: The power or right to direct or regulate.
• Management: The act of overseeing or guiding a process or activity.
• Influence: The ability to affect outcomes or behavior.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The power to influence or direct behavior or events: Refers to having authority or governance over actions or processes.
  • Example: "The government sought to gain control of the situation."
• A means of limiting or managing something: Describes mechanisms or systems used to regulate, restrict, or manage.
  • Example: "The thermostat serves as a control for room temperature."
• A standard of comparison in experiments: In scientific contexts, it refers to a condition that remains constant for the purpose of comparison.
  • Example: "The control group received no treatment."

Verb

• To exercise authority or command over: Refers to having the ability to influence or direct actions or processes.
  • Example: "She controlled the flow of information."
• To limit or regulate: Refers to restricting or moderating an action or behavior.
  • Example: "They introduced laws to control pollution."
• To manage or restrain one's own emotions or reactions: Describes the act of maintaining self-discipline or calmness.
  • Example: "He struggled to control his anger."