controlling Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. verb exercise authoritative control or power over
    control; command.
    • control the budget
    • Command the military forces
  2. verb lessen the intensity of; temper; hold in restraint; hold or keep within limits
    control; moderate; hold in; curb; contain; hold; check.
    • moderate your alcohol intake
    • hold your tongue
    • hold your temper
    • control your anger
  3. verb handle and cause to function
    control; operate.
    • do not operate machinery after imbibing alcohol
    • control the lever
  4. verb control (others or oneself) or influence skillfully, usually to one's advantage
    keep in line; control; manipulate.
    • She manipulates her boss
    • She is a very controlling mother and doesn't let her children grow up
    • The teacher knew how to keep the class in line
    • she keeps in line
  5. verb check or regulate (a scientific experiment) by conducting a parallel experiment or comparing with another standard
    control; verify.
    • Are you controlling for the temperature?
  6. verb verify by using a duplicate register for comparison
    control.
    • control an account
  7. verb be careful or certain to do something; make certain of something
    insure; control; see to it; assure; see; ensure; ascertain; check.
    • He verified that the valves were closed
    • See that the curtains are closed
    • control the quality of the product
  8. verb have a firm understanding or knowledge of; be on top of
    control; master.
    • Do you control these data?
  9. adjective satellite able to control or determine policy
    • a controlling interest in the firm

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