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Definitions

get the upper hand

VERB

predominate

Synonyms

STRONGEST

hold sway

STRONG

command dominate domineer govern manage outweigh overrule overshadow preponderate prevail reign rule tell

WEAK

carry weight

Antonyms

STRONG

follow serve submit surrender yield

VERB

subdue

Synonyms

STRONGEST

conquer crush extinguish humble overcome overpower quell repress restrain suppress tame temper

STRONG

break check control defeat discipline dominate drop gentle mellow overrun quash quench quiet quieten reduce soften squelch subjugate trample vanquish

WEAK

bear down beat down break in get the better of get under control put down shut down tone down triumph over

Antonyms

STRONGEST

aggravate agitate build up encourage let go lose praise release surrender yield

STRONG

aid allow assist give up help liberate permit start strengthen

WEAK

arouse incite rouse

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“Maybe I need to push myself and buy some outfits that would let me get the upper hand in diplomatic negotiations,” she said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 24, 2025

The first round saw Khizriev get the upper hand with the grappling, ducking under a Loughnane spinning back kick and controlling the action on the ground for the remainder of the round.

From BBC • Nov. 29, 2024

Defenders certainly couldn’t get the upper hand on Alt much over the past three seasons.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 3, 2024

Crews began to get the upper hand Monday night on a wildfire that has charred hundreds of acres and forced evacuations in Riverside County.

From Los Angeles Times • May 23, 2023

Up to now reason has always won the battle, but will my emotions get the upper hand?

From "The Diary of a Young Girl" by Anne Frank

get the upper hand

Example Sentences

Related Words