self-command: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal, Literary
Quick answer
What does “self-command” mean?
Control of one's emotions, impulses, or actions, especially in difficult situations.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
Control of one's emotions, impulses, or actions, especially in difficult situations.
The capacity to act deliberately and with restraint, maintaining composure and discipline despite provocation, stress, or temptation. It implies an internal governance that aligns behavior with principles or long-term goals.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term is understood in both varieties but is more frequently encountered in British English, particularly in older literary or formal contexts. American English strongly prefers 'self-control'.
Connotations
In both, it connotes a positive, praiseworthy trait, often associated with military officers, leaders, or stoic figures. In British English, it may carry a slight echo of Victorian or Edwardian ideals of character.
Frequency
Low-frequency in contemporary spoken English for both varieties. Higher frequency in formal writing, classic literature, and character descriptions.
Grammar
How to Use “self-command” in a Sentence
exercise self-command over [something]show self-command in the face of [something]admire someone's self-commandVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “self-command” in a Sentence
adverb
British English
- He replied self-commandedly, without raising his voice.
American English
- She waited self-commandedly for her turn to speak.
adjective
British English
- She gave a self-commanded, polite smile despite the insult.
American English
- His self-commanded response prevented an escalation.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in leadership or management discussions, e.g., 'The CEO's self-command during the crisis reassured investors.'
Academic
Found in philosophical, psychological, or historical texts discussing virtue ethics, character, or emotional regulation.
Everyday
Rare in casual conversation. Might be used in earnest discussions of personal challenges or in praising someone's calm demeanor.
Technical
Not a technical term, though related to concepts in psychology like 'emotional regulation' or 'executive function'.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “self-command”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “self-command”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “self-command”
- Using it as a verb ('He self-commanded himself'). Incorrect. Using it in overly casual contexts where 'self-control' is more natural. Confusing it with 'self-confidence'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
They are very close synonyms, but 'self-command' is more formal, slightly archaic, and often implies a dignified, almost noble quality of restraint, whereas 'self-control' is the neutral, everyday term.
No, 'self-command' is exclusively a noun. You cannot 'self-command' something. The related action is expressed with verbs like 'exercise', 'show', or 'maintain' (e.g., 'She exercised great self-command').
It is most common in formal writing, character descriptions in literary fiction (especially from the 18th-19th centuries), historical biographies, and texts discussing leadership or philosophical virtues like stoicism.
It is not wrong, but it is a stylistic choice. Using it in casual conversation or modern business reports might sound oddly formal or old-fashioned. 'Self-control' is almost always a safer, more natural choice for contemporary usage.
Control of one's emotions, impulses, or actions, especially in difficult situations.
Self-command is usually formal, literary in register.
Self-command: in British English it is pronounced /ˌself kəˈmɑːnd/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌself kəˈmænd/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “keep one's cool”
- “keep a stiff upper lip (esp. UK)”
- “hold one's horses”
- “bite one's tongue”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a military COMMANDER giving orders to their own SELF: 'At ease, soldier!' It's about commanding your own emotions.
Conceptual Metaphor
THE SELF IS A KINGDOM/SHIP. The mind is a ruler (or captain) that must command its subjects (emotions/impulses) to maintain order.
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following situations BEST exemplifies 'self-command'?