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Grammar fix

lose control

cannot manage

To be unable to manage your feelings, actions, or a situation, often leading to problems or chaos.

collocationB1common

Hear it in context

Notice where the phrase sounds natural.

  • He lost control of the car on the icy road.emotions
  • In stressful situations, some people lose control of their emotions and react without thinking.IELTS speaking

Fix the pattern

Pattern: lose control (of something)

WrongHe lost the control of the car.

RightHe lost control of the car.

No 'the' — 'lose control OF something'.

Patternlose control (of something)

Use it right

Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.

Stiff He forfeited his capacity to regulate the situation.

Natural He lost control of the situation.

'Lose control' is natural; 'forfeit capacity to regulate' is jargon.

Build natural chunks

Words that usually travel with it.

  • lose control (of)
    ofcompletelythe caryourself

Don't confuse it

Do not confuse with 'take control,' which means to start managing something.

Try it in Daily Speak →