Skip to main content

gain the upper handto get into a position of advantage or control in a competition or conflict

Part of speech: NOUN

Definition: to get into a position of advantage or control in a competition or conflict

Pronunciation (IPA): /ɡeɪn ði ˈʌpər hænd/

Example Sentences

  • After hours of debate, the clever lawyer finally gained the upper hand by presenting irrefutable evidence.
  • My cat thinks it has gained the upper hand because I bought it a fancy bed, but little does it know I'm still the one with the can opener.
  • The startup gained the upper hand in the market by offering free pizza with every software subscription.

gain the upper hand

NOUN

[/ɡeɪn ði ˈʌpər hænd/]

to get into a position of advantage or control in a competition or conflict

After a tough match, she finally gained the upper hand in the final round.
💡 Concept

After a tough match, she finally gained the upper hand in the final round.

Make your move land, then proudly stand - gain the upper hand!
🎵 Rhyme

Make your move land, then proudly stand - gain the upper hand!

Got the picture? Now let's practice.

🎤Pronunciation

🇺🇸 US/ɡeɪn ði ˈʌpər hænd/
🇬🇧 UK/ɡeɪn ði ˈʌpə hænd/

🌳Etymology

🎵Rhyme

handstandlandbrand
hand
stand
land
brand

🔗Collocations

gradually gain the upper hand
gain the upper hand over competitors
struggle to gain the upper hand
finally gain the upper hand
gain the upper hand in negotiations

📝Examples

After hours of debate, the clever lawyer finally gained the upper hand by presenting irrefutable evidence.

😄 Fun example

My cat thinks it has gained the upper hand because I bought it a fancy bed, but little does it know I'm still the one with the can opener.

😄 Fun example

The startup gained the upper hand in the market by offering free pizza with every software subscription.

Once the new CEO implemented cost-cutting measures, the company began to gain the upper hand over its rivals.

📚Related Words

Synonyms

take controldominateprevailget aheadseize advantage

Antonyms

lose groundfall behindsurrender

Related

advantagesuperioritydominancecontrolleadership

Want to master 19,000+ words?

Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.