command voice

Meanings

1. 1nouncountable or uncountablemilitary

   A loud, firm, and clear way of speaking used to give orders or instructions that must be obeyed.

   Grammar: Can be used with 'a' or 'the' when referring to a particular instance, or without an article when talking about the quality in general.

   Patterns

   • use a command voice
   • in a command voice
   • speak with a command voice

   The drill sergeant gave the order in a command voice.

   She practiced using a command voice so the students would listen.

   His command voice carried across the parade ground.

2. 2nouncountable or uncountable

   A tone of voice that sounds confident and authoritative, often used by leaders or teachers.

   Grammar: Used more generally outside the military to describe a forceful speaking style.

   Patterns

   • adopt a command voice
   • with a command voice

   When the meeting got out of hand, the chairwoman switched to a command voice.

   He used his command voice to quiet the noisy classroom.

Word forms

Common combinations

in a command voice

She spoke in a command voice that left no room for argument.

use a command voice

The captain used a command voice to give the order.

practice a command voice

Actors often practice a command voice for roles as leaders.

Synonyms and how they differ

authoritative tone

A broader term for any voice that sounds confident and in charge; 'command voice' is more specific to giving orders.

drill voice

Used mainly in military contexts for the loud, sharp voice used on the parade ground; 'command voice' can also be used more generally.

Commonly confused: command voice or commanding voice?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “command voice”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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