What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
captained
Example
He captained the soccer team to victory in the championship. [captained: verb]
Example
She has captained the debate club for three years. [captained: past tense]
commanded
Example
The general commanded his troops to advance. [commanded: verb]
Example
She commanded the attention of the audience with her powerful speech. [commanded: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Commanded is more commonly used than captained in everyday language, especially in formal or military settings. Commanded has a wider range of applications and can be used to describe leadership roles in different domains. Captained, on the other hand, is more specific to sports contexts and is less commonly used outside of those contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between captained and commanded?
While captained is associated with a more casual and informal tone, commanded is generally considered more formal and is commonly used in professional or official settings.