command (B1)

verb, noun

Pronunciation: /kəˈmænd/

Definition

An authoritative order or direction.

Examples

• The captain gave the command to fire.

• He issued a command that could not be ignored.

• Her every whim was met with a silent command.

How to Use command

command someone to do something (prepositional phrase)

To order someone to perform a specific action. — "The officer commanded the suspect to put down the weapon."

in command of (prepositional phrase)

Having control or authority over something or someone. — "The captain was in command of the ship."

command attention (collocation)

To attract or hold the attention of others. — "Her striking appearance commanded everyone's attention."

command respect (collocation)

To be worthy of respect and admiration. — "The wise elder commanded the respect of the entire village."

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