having the upper hand

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "having the upper hand" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a situation where one person or group has an advantage over another. Example: "In negotiations, having the upper hand can lead to more favorable outcomes for your side."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

He loves having the upper hand almost as much as Bill hates him having it.

The Guardian

It is perceived as having the upper hand over the Bolshoi.

Independent

Meles Zenawi, Ethiopia's prime minister, dislikes the idea of Kenya having the upper hand in Somalia.

The Economist

Citing Lawson's alleged drug use may have involved a more subtle feeling of having the upper hand.

The Guardian - Opinion

At the village level, the two groups have often been in conflict, with the backward castes having the upper hand.

The New York Times

They cannot prevent Mr Assad from having the upper hand militarily, but they are further eroding his shrinking political authority.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

Nature has the upper hand.

The New Yorker

"They have the upper hand.

The New York Times

Investors have the upper hand.

The New York Times

Russia has long had the upper hand.

The Economist

The latter currently have the upper hand.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for objectivity in your writing, use "having the upper hand" to clearly indicate which party benefits from a power dynamic.

Common error

Avoid using the phrase in contexts where objectivity is crucial, as it can suggest an inherent bias or unfair advantage. Instead, consider phrases like "being in a better position" or "holding an advantage" to maintain neutrality.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "having the upper hand" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the state of possessing an advantage or control in a situation. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Wiki

5%

Reference

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "having the upper hand" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe a situation where one party possesses a significant advantage or control. Ludwig AI confirms this. It is most frequently found in news and media contexts, indicating its relevance in describing power dynamics and strategic situations. While its usage is generally neutral, it is important to avoid overuse in situations where objectivity is key. Alternatives such as "being in control" or "holding the advantage" can offer similar meanings with slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

having the edge

Uses a more concise and informal expression for having an advantage.

being in control

Focuses on the state of control rather than the act of possessing an advantage.

holding the advantage

Highlights the advantage itself, rather than the person possessing it.

being in a commanding position

Emphasizes the strength and authority of the advantageous position.

gaining the ascendancy

Emphasizes the process of achieving a dominant position.

securing dominance

Highlights the act of establishing a dominant position firmly.

maintaining control

Highlights the act of keeping control, implying an ongoing effort.

being dominant

Describes a state of overall dominance rather than a specific advantage.

taking the lead

Focuses on initiative and forward momentum in gaining an advantage.

gaining mastery

Focuses on achieving comprehensive skill and control in a particular area.

FAQs

How can I use "having the upper hand" in a sentence?

You can use "having the upper hand" to indicate control or advantage in a situation. For example, "In negotiations, "having the upper hand" often leads to a more favorable outcome".

What are some alternatives to "having the upper hand"?

Alternatives include "being in control", "holding the advantage", or "gaining the ascendancy", which offer similar meanings with slight variations in emphasis.

Is it better to say "have the upper hand" or "having the upper hand"?

Both are correct, but they serve different grammatical functions. "Have the upper hand" is often used as a verb phrase (e.g., "They have the upper hand in this negotiation"), while "having the upper hand" functions as a gerund or participial phrase (e.g., "Having the upper hand allowed them to dictate the terms").

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

"Having the upper hand" implies a more significant level of control or dominance compared to simply "having an advantage". An advantage can be minor, while "having the upper hand" suggests a more decisive position.