Upper hand: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Upper hand” mean?

"Upper hand" means having an advantage or being in a superior position.

What context can I use the in?

Example

He gained the upper hand in the negotiation.

Example

The team with more experience had the upper hand in the game.

Example

She always knows how to get the upper hand in any situation

Is “Upper hand” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Upper hand” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Upper hand” effectively in context?

You can use "Upper Hand" to describe a situation where someone has an advantage or is in a superior position. It implies that the person has control or dominance over others. For example, if someone gains the "upper hand" in a negotiation, it means they have gained an advantage over the other party and are more likely to achieve their desired outcome.

• 1. Negotiation

  After presenting a strong argument, he gained the upper hand in the negotiation.

• 2. Competition

  The team with more experience had the upper hand in the game.

• 3. Social Interactions

  She always knows how to get the upper hand in any situation.

Similar phrases to “Upper hand”:

Have the edge

To have an advantage over others

Example

With his extensive knowledge, he had the edge over his competitors.

Call the shots

To be in control and make the decisions

Example

As the team captain, she called the shots during the game.

Hold the reins

To have control or be in charge

Example

He held the reins of the company and made all the important decisions.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Upper hand” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Upper Hand" is unknown.

Is “Upper hand” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Upper Hand" is a common expression in everyday conversation. It is frequently used to describe situations where someone has an advantage or is in a superior position.

What tone does “Upper hand” have?

"Upper Hand" conveys a tone of power and control. It suggests that someone has gained an advantage over others and is in a position of dominance.

Can “Upper hand” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Upper Hand" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that can be used in various contexts, such as negotiations, competitions, or social interactions.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He gained the upper hand in the negotiation.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to gain the "upper hand"!' to imply readiness to take control of a situation.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• superiority
• advantage
• control
• power
• dominant position

Antonyms

• disadvantage
• underdog
• inferior position
• losing position