ENGLISH
REFERENCE

controlling

v. · adj. · n.
US //kənˈtɹoʊɫɪŋ// UK //kəntɹˈəʊlɪŋ// con·trol·ling
  1. 1 managing or directing (v.)
    B1 Intermediate

    managing, directing, or limiting how something works or happens.

    the present participle of 'control', used to describe the act of exercising power or influence over a system, process, or entity.

    Example

    The pilot is controlling the plane's altitude during the storm.

    Example

    By controlling the flow of information, the administration managed to shape public perception of the crisis before the full report was released.
  2. 2 dominating others (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    trying to limit what other people do or how they behave in an unfair way.

    describing a person or behaviour that seeks to exercise excessive or restrictive influence over others.

    Example

    He found it hard to stay in the relationship because his partner was very controlling.

    Example

    The manager's controlling nature stifled creativity within the team, as employees felt unable to make even minor decisions without prior approval.
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  1. 3 the act of control (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    the act of keeping something under power or influence.

    the gerund form of 'control', referring to the process or action of exercising authority or regulation.

    Example

    Controlling the spread of the virus required everyone to stay home.

    Example

    Effective controlling of the budget is essential for the long-term viability of the non-profit organisation.
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