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.

“As soon as they think they have the upper hand, they’ll tell us to go away.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 31, 2026

For the first few months Grenell seemed to have the upper hand: There were prisoner exchanges, deportation flights, Chevron’s license was renewed.

From Slate • Jan. 6, 2026

That is a strong indication that biotechs have the upper hand in negotiating with potential acquirers.

From Barron's • Nov. 14, 2025

This attraction to royalty will give the King a "rare advantage" in dealing with Trump, who usually expects to have the upper hand, says Prof Whitelock.

From BBC • Sep. 14, 2025

Whatever they faced, he’d have the upper hand as long as they were at sea.

From "The Son of Neptune" by Rick Riordan