The upper hand Meaning in English
expression
Definición
If you have the upper hand, you have more power, control, or advantage over someone else in a situation.
Uso & Matices
Common in both spoken and written English, often used in negotiations, arguments, or competitions. Usually appears as 'have the upper hand,' but can also be 'gain/get/keep the upper hand.' Not literal; it always refers to power or advantage, not a physical hand.
Oraciones de Ejemplo
She has the upper hand in the game now.
basic
If we work together, we can get the upper hand.
basic
He tries hard to keep the upper hand in every argument.
basic
After hours of negotiation, our team finally gained the upper hand.
natural
Don’t let him get the upper hand or he’ll never stop talking.
natural
For a moment, it looked like we had the upper hand, but things changed fast.
natural