General meaning:
* To have power over or the ability to direct or influence something. This is the most general definition, encompassing all the other meanings below.
Specific meanings:
* To manage or regulate something: This could involve setting limits, making decisions, or guiding an activity. For example, "The government controls the flow of money in the economy."
* To restrain or suppress something: This often implies preventing something from happening or from being expressed. For example, "He tried to control his anger."
* To test or compare something against a standard: This is often used in scientific experiments or when evaluating performance. For example, "The experiment used a control group to compare results."
* To have a specific purpose or function: This meaning is often used in reference to technology or machines. For example, "The thermostat controls the temperature of the room."
* To check or verify something: This implies ensuring accuracy or authenticity. For example, "The manager controls the inventory."
Figurative meanings:
* To have a strong influence on someone or something: For example, "He has a lot of control over his employees."
* To be able to maintain composure or stability: For example, "She kept her emotions under control."
The specific meaning of "control" will always depend on the context of the sentence or phrase.
It's important to note that "control" can also be used as a noun, meaning the act of controlling something or the power to control something. For example, "The manager has a lot of control over the company."