English Reference
verb · adjective · noun

controlling

v. · adj. · n.
US /kənˈtɹoʊɫɪŋ/ UK /kəntɹˈəʊlɪŋ/ con·trol·ling

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

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

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

    Simple

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

    In context

    By controlling the flow of information, the administration managed to shape public perception of the crisis before the full report was released.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

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

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

    Simple

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

    In context

    The manager's controlling nature stifled creativity within the team, as employees felt unable to make even minor decisions without prior approval.

    permissiveeasy going
  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate

    n.the act of keeping something under power or influence.

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

    Simple

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

    In context

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

This entry
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated