an upper hand

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an upper hand" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a position of advantage or control over someone or something in a competitive situation. Example: "In negotiations, having an upper hand can significantly influence the outcome."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

In that respect, Cayard may have an upper hand.

The New York Times - Sports

When someone has an upper hand is very disconcerting.

The Guardian

Each side believes it has an upper hand.

The New York Times

"India had to have an upper hand sexually as well".

The New York Times

But given their head start, Stoller says, conservatives "will certainly have an upper hand".

The New York Times

The film ends unresolved, but cautiously upbeat — solidarity seemed to have an upper hand.

The New Yorker

"The Americans seem to have more of an upper hand than before".

The New York Times

"No single force will be able to truly gain an upper hand in the country".

The New Yorker

From the beginning, both have vied for an upper hand, and today both are tarnished.

The New York Times

By repositioning early, Frankfurt hopes to gain an upper hand either way.

The Economist

And I think that gave me an upper hand on the material.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an upper hand" to clearly indicate that one party or entity has a significant advantage over another in a specific situation. For example, "Having a strong understanding of the market gave our company "an upper hand" during negotiations."

Common error

Avoid using "an upper hand" to describe minor or insignificant advantages. This phrase implies a substantial and decisive advantage. For example, instead of saying "Having a slightly better pencil gave him "an upper hand"", opt for a more accurate description such as "Having a slightly better pencil gave him a minor advantage".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an upper hand" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often used as the object of a verb (e.g., gain, have, give). According to Ludwig, the phrase is considered grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an upper hand" is a widely used and grammatically sound phrase that signifies having a position of control or advantage. Ludwig's analysis confirms its correctness and provides numerous examples demonstrating its versatility across various contexts. Its frequent occurrence in news media and formal writing suggests its suitability for a broad range of communicative purposes. To enhance writing, remember to use "an upper hand" when describing a substantial advantage, not a minor one, and consider alternatives like "a competitive advantage" or "the edge" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

The advantage

A more concise way of expressing having a favorable position.

A competitive advantage

Focuses on the advantage in a competitive scenario.

The edge

Implies a slight but significant advantage.

A strategic advantage

Highlights the strategic nature of the advantage.

A controlling position

Highlights the aspect of being in control.

A dominant position

Emphasizes the strength and power of the advantage.

A privileged position

Emphasizes the favorable or superior nature of the position.

The lead

Focuses on being ahead or in front.

The whip hand

Implies control through authority or power.

Ascendancy

Suggests a rise to a position of power or influence.

FAQs

How can I use "an upper hand" in a sentence?

The phrase "an upper hand" is used to describe having control or an advantage in a situation. For example, "Their experience in the industry gave them "an upper hand" during the bidding process".

What is a good alternative to "an upper hand"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "a competitive advantage", "a dominant position", or "the edge" as substitutes for "an upper hand".

Is it grammatically correct to say "have an upper hand"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. The phrase "have an upper hand" is a common idiom used to express being in a controlling or advantageous position.

What's the difference between "an upper hand" and "an advantage"?

While both imply a beneficial position, "an upper hand" suggests a more significant level of control or dominance compared to simply having "an advantage". "An advantage" can be a slight edge, whereas "an upper hand" indicates a clear superiority.