lose control

/luːz kənˈtroʊl/◆phrasal verb

become unable to manage oneself or a situation

The driver lost control of the car on the icy road.

The driver became unable to manage the car due to slippery conditions.

informal

To become unable to manage oneself or a situation, often due to strong emotions or external factors.

She lost control during the argument and started crying.

She became overwhelmed with emotion and couldn't manage her reaction.

The pilot lost control of the plane due to mechanical failure.

The pilot was unable to manage the plane's flight due to technical issues.

This phrase is often used to describe emotional or situational instability.

Collocations

lose control ofbecome unable to managelose control overbecome unable to manage

become very angry

become calm and composed

This phrase is often used to describe emotional reactions, such as anger or sadness.

The meaning can vary based on the context, such as emotional, situational, or mechanical.

The phrase combines the verb 'lose' (to misplace or fail to retain) and 'control' (authority or power over something).

This phrase is commonly used in both literal and figurative contexts, often to describe emotional or situational instability.

lose

to misplace or fail to retain

root

control

authority or power over something

root

English Dictionary