Antonyms for the phrase "assumes command" could include terms such as relinquish, resign, yield, surrender, or submit. These words suggest a lack of control or authority, in contrast to the sense of power often conveyed by someone assuming command. Other antonyms could focus on traits like indecisiveness, timidity or a lack of leadership ability, such as hesitate, waives, defers, or hesitates, while still others might focus on being part of a team or collective rather than taking individual command, such as cooperate, share or collaborate. These antonyms highlight the range of ways in which people can exercise leadership or submit to the guidance of others.