English Reference
adjective

controlled

adj.
US /kənˈtɹoʊɫd/ UK /kəntɹˈəʊld/ con·trolled

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

    managed or limited by rules or laws.

    subjected to regulation, direction, or command by an external authority.

    Simple

    The city has a controlled parking zone where you need a permit.

    In context

    The entry of foreign capital into the local market remains strictly controlled by the central bank to prevent sudden currency fluctuations.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    showing power over your feelings so that you stay calm.

    demonstrating emotional restraint or self-discipline in one's actions and speech.

    Simple

    Even though he was angry, he spoke in a very controlled voice.

    In context

    Her response to the accusations was remarkably controlled, betraying none of the frustration she likely felt during the hearing.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced AcademicTechnical Science

    describing a test where one group is compared to another to see if a drug or treatment works.

    pertaining to an experiment or clinical trial that includes a comparison group to account for variables.

    Simple

    The new medicine was tested in a controlled study with two hundred people.

    In context

    Randomised controlled trials are considered the gold standard for determining the efficacy of new pharmaceutical interventions in modern medicine.

    Usage

    Often appears in the phrase 'controlled trial' or 'controlled experiment'.

Usage controlled trials · controlled conditions · controlled trial

This entry
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated