PhrasesHub

The upper hand

    Definitions

      • having control or advantage
        To have a position of power or control in a situation, often in a competitive or confrontational context

      • gain advantage
        To gain an advantage over someone or something in a competition, conflict, or negotiation

    Examples of The upper hand

    • In the final round of the chess tournament, Sarah found herself with the upper hand against her opponent.

      Sarah was in a better position to win the game as she had more pieces on the board and could make strategic moves. This idiom is used to describe a situation where one person has a clear advantage over another in a competition or conflict.

    • During the negotiations, the company's CEO confidently stated that they had the upper hand.

      The CEO believed that their company had a stronger position in the negotiations due to various factors such as market share, resources, and expertise. This idiom is used to indicate that someone or something is in a favorable or dominant position.

    • After years of hard work, Mary finally found herself with the upper hand in her career.

      Mary's years of dedication and experience had paid off as she now had more opportunities, respect, and influence in her profession. This idiom is used to describe a situation where someone has gained a significant advantage or position of strength.

    • Following a string of successes, the athlete entered the competition with the upper hand.

      The athlete's previous performances had given them a significant advantage over their competitors as they had a better understanding of the game, more confidence, and possibly more experience. This idiom is used to suggest that someone has a clear advantage or lead based on their past performance or circumstances.

    • Sarah has the upper hand in the negotiations due to her extensive industry knowledge and experience.

      In this example, 'the upper hand' is used to describe the advantage or superior position that Sarah holds over the other parties in the negotiations. Her expertise in the industry gives her an edge over the others, making it more likely for her to achieve favorable outcomes in the negotiations.

    • The football team's stellar performance in the first half gave them the upper hand, paving the way for their eventual victory.

      Here, 'the upper hand' refers to the advantage the football team had gained during the first half of the game, allowing them to maintain control and ultimately result in a win.

    • Despite facing several setbacks, John refused to concede and held on to the upper hand, ultimately achieving his goal.

      In this example, 'the upper hand' denotes the advantage or favorable position that John maintained, even when faced with adversity. His perseverance and determination ultimately led to his success.

    • The chess player skillfully maneuvered his pieces, taking the upper hand in the game and leaving his opponent struggling to keep up.

      In this example, 'the upper hand' signifies the advantage held by the chess player due to his strategic moves and superior gameplay. His opponent now finds it challenging to compete due to the lead established by the player.


    Conclusion

    "The upper hand" is a versatile idiom that can be used in various situations to indicate having control or advantage. It is often used in competitive or confrontational contexts, as well as in negotiations or conflicts. The phrase is commonly used to describe gaining an advantage over someone or something.

    Origin of "The upper hand"

    The origin of the idiom "the upper hand" dates back to the 16th century, when it was first recorded in English literature. The term "upper" refers to a position or advantage of higher status or power, while "hand" symbolizes control or influence. The phrase likely originated from the concept of physical combat, where having the upper hand meant having a better vantage point or position to overpower an opponent. Over time, it has evolved to encompass a broader range of situations where one has control or advantage. The idiom has become a common expression in the English language, reflecting the universal human desire for power and control.