lord it over

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lord it over" is correct in written English.
It is typically used to describe someone who is arrogantly or imperiously dictating their will over someone else. For example: "The boss lords it over his employees, leaving them feeling intimidated and powerless in their jobs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Kingston does what she was born to do: lord it over everyone.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

But what's success without friends to share it with — and lord it over?

The New Yorker

Mark Gibbings-Jones 9pm, BBC2 Once you've made your empire, it's time to properly lord it over everyone.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Schools in the hierarchy can get extra government funding and can find ways of selecting pupils that permit them to lord it over neighbouring schools.

The Guardian

So, when Australia were winning, it proved irresistible not to swan off to Lord's to, well, Lord it over the Poms.

The Guardian - Opinion

Posh Britain: will they always lord it over us?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

He's not coming here to lord it over us".

The Guardian

They lord it over us," said Lal, the bereaved father.

The Guardian

Spurs went on to lord it over their hosts.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

8) Housemate appreciation You don't need to lord-it-over the house, but your housemates are now essentially in your pocket.

Independent

Never lord it over your siblings or your parents.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "lord it over" when you want to express that someone is behaving in an arrogant or superior manner, especially by flaunting power or authority.

Common error

Avoid using "lord it over" in neutral contexts where you simply mean someone is in charge. The phrase carries a negative connotation of arrogance and dominance.

Linguistic Context

The idiomatic verb phrase "lord it over" functions as a descriptor of behavior, specifically indicating an arrogant or domineering exercise of power or authority. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is grammatically sound and in common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Encyclopedias

7%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "lord it over" is an idiomatic verb phrase used to describe someone behaving in an arrogant and domineering manner, often by flaunting power or authority. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage, primarily in neutral to slightly informal contexts such as news and media. While it's important to recognize its negative connotation, this phrase effectively communicates disapproval of someone's superior behavior. Remember, while synonyms like "dominate" or "boss around" exist, "lord it over" specifically carries a nuance of arrogance and unearned superiority.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

dominate

This alternative is a single verb which encapsulates the meaning of exerting control and influence.

exercise power over

This alternative is a more formal and neutral way of describing the act of wielding authority.

boss around

This alternative implies a more informal and often negative way of giving orders and controlling someone.

pull rank on

This alternative suggests using one's position or authority to gain an advantage.

be in control of

This alternative is a general term for having authority or command.

have the upper hand

This alternative focuses on having an advantage or superior position.

call the shots

This alternative means to make the important decisions and give orders.

reign supreme

This alternative conveys a sense of absolute dominance and authority.

dictate terms to

This alternative implies imposing one's will or conditions on others.

be at the helm

This alternative suggests being in a leadership position, guiding and directing others.

FAQs

How can I use "lord it over" in a sentence?

You can use "lord it over" to describe someone who behaves as if they are superior to others. For example: "After the promotion, he began to "lord it over" his former colleagues."

What does "lord it over" mean?

"Lord it over" means to behave in an arrogant or domineering way towards someone, often flaunting one's power or superiority.

Which is correct, "lord it over" or "master it over"?

"Lord it over" is the correct and idiomatic phrase. "Master it over" is not a standard expression.

What are some synonyms for "lord it over"?

Synonyms for "lord it over" include "dominate", "boss around", and "exercise power over".