Is there any difference between the following sentences?
Hi,
Could someone kindly tell me if there is any difference between the following sentences?

1. He was ruling over the country.
2. He was ruling the country.

My understanding is that the word "over" is not necessary, but if I put it, it will imply he was more powerful.
Since I mean to emphasize that he was kind of an unpopular dictator and ruled everything,
should I use the first sentence?

Any help would be really appreciated.

Thanks,
Nanako

Question

Is there any difference between the following sentences?
Hi,
Could someone kindly tell me if there is any difference between the following sentences?

1. He was ruling over the country.
2. He was ruling the country.

My understanding is that the word "over" is not necessary, but if I put it, it will imply he was more powerful.
Since I mean to emphasize that he was kind of an unpopular dictator and ruled everything, 
should I use the first sentence?

Any help would be really appreciated.

Thanks,
Nanako

Answer

I don't see a noticeable difference between them and consider them style differences.

The context provides the other factors you are asking about.

Answer

Thank you for your suggestion:)

Answer

In my opinion, if you want to emphasize that he was an unpopular dictator, I would choose the first sentence.

Maybe there is not a meaning difference but I feel that the first sentence implies that he was ruling the country without the country wanting to.

Hope it helps!

Answers · 4

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