PhrasesHub

Top dog

    Definitions

      • to be the most successful or powerful person or group in a particular situation
        Describing a person, organization, or entity that holds a position of superiority or dominance in a specific context, often in a competitive or hierarchical setting

      • to be the best or highest-ranking
        Referring to someone or something that is at the top of a particular hierarchy or ranking system, often in a positive or admirable way

    Examples of Top dog

    • The sales team's newest member quickly became the top dog, outperforming her colleagues in record time.

      This usage of "top dog" refers to the person who is the best performer or leader in a group.

    • In the competitive world of fashion, Anna Wintour is the undisputed top dog, setting trends and making careers with a single stroke of her editor's pen.

      In this example, "top dog" is used to describe the person who holds the most power and influence in their field.

    • Despite her small stature, Teresa was always the top dog in our kickboxing class, leaving us all in the dust with her lightning-fast kicks and punches.

      This usage of "top dog" refers to someone who excels in a specific activity, whether it's in a group setting or on an individual level.

    • My dog, Max, is definitely the top dog in our household, barking orders at the other pets and demanding countless belly rubs each day.

      In this example, "top dog" is used more lightheartedly to describe the leader or most influential member of a group, even in the context of animals.

    • Sarah is the top dog in her department. She has consistently outperformed her colleagues in terms of sales and productivity.

      The term "top dog" is used to describe a person who is the most successful or dominant in a particular group or situation. In this example, Sarah is the most successful member of her department, surpassing her colleagues in terms of sales and productivity.

    • Our sales team has a new top dog this quarter. After capturing the largest client in the region, John's performance has skyrocketed, and he's taken over the top spot from his former colleague, Rachel.

      "Top dog" can also be used to refer to a person who has recently gained dominance in a particular situation or group. In this example, John's successful acquisition of a large client has earned him the title of "top dog" for his sales team this quarter.

    • In a competitive field like finance, being the top dog is a coveted position. Those who excel in this role are often offered lucrative promotions and compensation packages.

      The use of "top dog" in this example reflects the competitive nature of the finance industry. In a field where success is highly valued, being the best is a significant accomplishment that often leads to increased opportunities and rewards.

    • Despite being the top dog in her company, Sarah remains humble and focused on continuing to improve her performance. She knows that success is never guaranteed and that complacency can lead to a loss of dominance.

      The use of "top dog" in this example emphasizes the importance of maintaining a strong hold on success in a competitive environment. Even those who are currently at the top must remain vigilant and committed to continued growth and improvement to maintain their position.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "top dog" is commonly used to describe someone or something that is in a position of power or superiority within a specific context. It can refer to the most successful or dominant individual or group in a competitive or hierarchical setting, as well as to someone or something that is at the top of a ranking system in a positive or admirable way.

    The term is often used in business, sports, and other competitive environments to highlight the leading or most influential entity. It can also be used in a more general sense to describe someone who is the best or highest-ranking in a particular area. Overall, "top dog" is a versatile idiom that conveys the idea of being at the top of the pack or hierarchy.

    Origin of "Top dog"

    The origin of the idiom "top dog" can be traced back to the world of dogfighting, where the most dominant or successful dog was referred to as the "top dog." This term was then adopted into the English language to describe the most powerful or successful individual or group in various contexts.

    The idiom has since evolved to be used in a wide range of settings, from business and sports to everyday conversations. It continues to convey the idea of being at the top of the hierarchy or ranking system, whether in a competitive or non-competitive environment. The imagery of a dominant dog being the "top dog" has stuck over time, making the idiom a widely understood and frequently used expression.