Definition

The power to influence or direct people's behavior or the course of events; a means of limiting or regulating something.

Example

The manager has full control over the project's budget and timeline.

Conversation

Have you seen the new video game with advanced controls?

Yeah, I heard it's really fun to play.

I can't wait to try it out and see how the controls work.

Same here! I hope they make it easy to learn.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To manage or influence something, often to keep it within certain limits or to ensure it behaves in a desired way.

Example

She tried to control her emotions during the meeting.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I’m trying to control my spending this month.

That’s a good idea! It can be tough sometimes.

Yeah, I really need to keep track of my expenses better.

Root Explanation

Control → It is formed from "contra-" (meaning against) and "rotulus" (meaning roll or scroll). The word originally referred to a counter-roll or a duplicate record kept to check the accuracy of the original, thus leading to the modern sense of exercising authority or influence over something.

Memory Tip

Think of having something 'against' ('contra-') a 'roll' ('rotulus') to check it — this helps you remember that control means to exercise authority or influence.

Visually Confused Words