English Reference
adjective · noun

commanding

adj. · n.
US /kəˈmændɪŋ/ UK /kəmˈɑːndɪŋ/ com·mand·ing

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    adj.having a style or voice that makes people want to obey you.

    adj.possessing or displaying an air of authority that compels obedience or respect.

    Simple

    She spoke in a commanding voice that silenced the entire room.

    In context

    The conductor possessed a commanding presence, ensuring that every musician in the orchestra remained perfectly synchronized throughout the difficult passage.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    adj.being in a very strong position, especially in a game or competition.

    adj.occupying a position of clear superiority or dominance over others.

    Simple

    By halftime, the home team had a commanding lead of twenty points.

    In context

    The corporation maintained a commanding position in the semiconductor market, effectively dictating industry standards for over a decade.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced Formal

    adj.describing a high place that gives you a clear view of everything below.

    adj.occupying a strategic height that provides a wide, unobstructed view of the surrounding area.

    Simple

    The castle was built on a hill, giving the soldiers a commanding view of the valley.

    In context

    From its commanding position atop the cliffs, the lighthouse provides a panoramic view of the treacherous coastline for miles in either direction.

  4. 04 C1 Advanced AcademicFormal

    n.the act of giving an order or being in charge.

    n.the gerund form used as a noun to describe the exercise of authority or the issuing of mandates.

    Simple

    His style of commanding was strict but always fair to his workers.

    In context

    The effective commanding of such a diverse coalition required a delicate balance of diplomacy and firm executive decision-making.

Celtic have put themselves in a commanding position in their Champions League qualifying play-off after a 3-0 win against Austrian champions Lask at Parkhead on Wednesday, 19th August.

BreakingNews.ie· 19 Aug 2026

A stunning double from the summer signing Camilo Durán helped Celtic open up a commanding lead against Lask in their Champions League playoff.

The Guardian· 19 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated