B2verb2K

Dominate

UK /["/ˈdɒmɪneɪt/","/ˈdɒmɪneɪts/","/ˈdɒmɪneɪtɪd/","/ˈdɒmɪneɪtɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˈdɑːmɪneɪt/","/ˈdɑːmɪneɪts/","/ˈdɑːmɪneɪtɪd/","/ˈdɑːmɪneɪtɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to control or have a lot of influence over somebody/something, especially in an unpleasant way

In simple words: To have control or power over something or someone.

Examples

  • He hopes to dominate the competition this year with his new strategy.
  • The athlete’s skill allowed him to dominate the sport for several years.
  • In their debates, she tended to dominate the conversation and rarely let others speak.
  • Mountains often dominate the landscape, shaping the climate of the area.
  • The new law aims to prevent any one company from attempting to dominate the market.

Usage notes

Use 'dominate' in contexts involving competition or influence. It can refer to a person, team, or idea being superior. Avoid in casual conversations where softer terms like 'lead' might be preferable.

Grammar pattern

dominate + object

Memory hint

Think of 'dominate' like a lion dominating its territory in the wild.

Collocations

  • absolutely
  • completely
  • entirely
  • absolutely
  • completely
  • entirely

Synonyms

  • control
  • overpower
  • rule
  • command
  • govern

Antonyms

  • submit
  • yield
  • surrender

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'dominion' and 'dominance'.
  • Used as 'dominate of' instead of 'dominate over'.
  • Mixing up 'dominate' with 'dominated' in verb forms.