have the upper hand

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.

And the Iranians will come into the talks thinking they have the upper hand.

From Slate • Apr. 8, 2026

Or maybe it’s not kindness at all but, rather, a way to reassure herself that she will always have the upper hand.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 24, 2025

The German would have the upper hand in a rally and immediately become too passive, allowing Sinner to unleash and take control of the point.

From BBC • Nov. 12, 2025

AI experts say it’s too early to tell who will ultimately have the upper hand in AI.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 11, 2025

But Richie Dixon always seemed to have the upper hand.

From "X: A Novel" by Ilyasah Shabazz