To lose control
Example: He lost control of the car.
Definition
"To lose control" means to fail to maintain authority or direction over something, such as a situation, vehicle, or emotion. For example, when someone "loses control" of a car, they are unable to steer or manage it properly, often leading to unintended consequences.
Etymology
The phrase "to lose control" combines the verb "lose," which comes from Old English 'losian,' meaning to perish or be destroyed, and the noun "control," derived from Old French 'contrerole,' referring to a counter-roll or a register for verification. Together, they express the idea of losing one's ability to govern or direct something effectively.