Controlling - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Controlling means having the power to influence or direct people’s behavior or the course of events. It often implies authority, management, or excessive regulation over others or situations.
Definition:
Exercising authority or influence over others, often excessively or restrictively.
Synonyms:
domineering, authoritarian, overbearing, manipulative
Part of Speech:
adjective, verb (gerund/present participle)
Antonyms:
submissive, permissive
Common Collocations:
controlling behavior, controlling interest, controlling stake, controlling parent
Derivatives:
controller, controlled
Usage Tips:
Use "controlling" to describe someone who excessively directs others' actions or decisions.
Common Phrases:
control freak, under control, lose control
Etymology:
Derived from Middle French "contreroller," meaning to check or regulate via a duplicate register.
Examples:
- 1. She has a controlling personality and always dictates what others do.
- 2. The company holds a controlling stake in several smaller firms.
- 3. His controlling behavior made it hard for his friends to feel free.
- 4. Parents should avoid being too controlling to foster independence in children.