dominate
DOM-uh-neyt
/ˈdɒmɪneɪt/
To have a commanding influence on; to exercise control over; to be the most influential or conspicuous feature of.
Implies overwhelming power or presence that overshadows all competitors, sometimes to an unhealthy or monopolistic degree.
The story behind the word. From the Latin 'dominari' (to rule, be lord), which comes from 'dominus' (master or lord of the house), derived from 'domus' (house). It literally means to act as the master of the household, where one's word is absolute law.
Word relationships
- control: 'Control' means to direct or manage, while 'dominate' implies a visible, overwhelming superiority that makes others secondary.
- monopolize: 'Monopolize' specifically means to take exclusive possession of a resource, while 'dominate' can refer to influence, presence, or physical power.
- submit: 'Submit' is to yield to a dominant force rather than being the dominant force itself.
- cooperate: 'Cooperate' is to work together as equals, preventing any single party from dominating.
Commonly confused with
- domineer: 'Domineer' is to behave in an arrogant, overbearing manner, while 'dominate' is the actual state of having superior power or influence.
Word family
- dominance (noun): Power and influence over others.
- dominant (adjective): Most important, powerful, or influential.
Collocations
- dominate the market
- dominate the conversation
- dominate the game
- male-dominated
Example sentences
- "A single major corporation continues to dominate the global smartphone market." A market analysis of the tech industry.
- "The massive cathedral spire was built to dominate the city's skyline." A description of a landscape.
Memory hook
Think of a 'dominant' person who acts like the 'lord' of their 'domain'. Rule your domain.
When not to use
Do not use when describing a balanced partnership or a system of checks and balances.
Fun facts
- The word 'domino' (as in the game) originally referred to a hooded masquerade cloak worn by priests, which came from the Latin 'dominus' because the cloak made the wearer look like a master or lord.
Explore more words
domineer, monopolize, ascendancy, overbearing, hegemony, subjugate
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