control implies a regulating or restraining in order to keep within bounds or on a course. direct implies constant guiding and regulating so as to achieve smooth operation. power, authority, …

CONTROL definition: to exercise restraint or direction over; dominate: command. See examples of control used in a sentence.

The Chicago-based holding company controls a global network of advertising and public relations agencies. Within five years the tech firm controlled 60% of the European market.

To have control is to have the power to run something in an orderly way. A skillful teacher maintains control over students who might otherwise waste time or be disruptive.

To exercise authoritative or dominating influence over; direct: The majority party controls the legislative agenda. See Synonyms at conduct. 2. To adjust to a requirement; regulate: rules …

If you are at the controls, you are controlling a vehicle. The copilot was at the controls when the plane landed. The effects of the drug were clear when the test group was compared with the …

control of somebody/something The party expects to gain control of the council in the next election. Militants have taken control of the town. The Democrats have lost control of …

A control is a device such as a switch or lever which you use in order to operate a machine or other piece of equipment. I practiced operating the controls.

The Chicago-based holding company controls a global network of advertising and public relations agencies. Within five years the tech firm controlled 60% of the European market.

(Definition of controls from the Cambridge Academic Content Dictionary © Cambridge University Press)