Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Definitions

commanding

[kuh-man-ding, -mahn-] / kəˈmæn dɪŋ, -ˈmɑn- /
ADJECTIVE
superior, authoritative
Synonyms
STRONGEST
assertive compelling decisive dominant dominating forceful imposing impressive lofty
STRONG
arresting controlling striking
WEAK
advantageous autocratic bossy dictatorial imperious in charge peremptory
Antonyms
STRONGEST
humble ineffective modest secondary subordinate unimportant unimpressive weak
WEAK
indecisive inferior unassertive uncontrolling

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The victory left Sindarov in a commanding position at the Candidates tournament, where the winner gets the chance to play for the World Chess Championship.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 6, 2026

Jai Field, on his return from injury, and Zach Eckersley gave the visitors what looked to be a commanding 24-10 lead before Saints pulled off a remarkable late comeback.

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

While the imminent SpaceX initial public offering is commanding plenty of attention right now, there are already ways to get in on the space boom beyond public satellite and launch plays, according to analysts.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 3, 2026

The March 5 election returned a new 275-seat lower house of parliament, with the RSP winning a commanding majority of 182.

From Barron's • Mar. 26, 2026

He'd looked at his commanding officer very oddly.

From "And Then There Were None" by Agatha Christie