as in advantage
the more favorable condition or position in a competition
finally gained the upper hand in the argument
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Recent Examples of upper hand
The Virginia measure became a turning point, Jeffries’ biggest swing yet, putting Democrats essentially at parity, if not a potential upper hand in the number of seats gained, and shifting Old Dominion more securely into the party’s column.
—
Lisa Mascaro,
Los Angeles Times,
14 May 2026
Does that give an upper hand to British Hamnet star Joe Alwyn?
—
Jason P. Frank,
Vulture,
14 May 2026
The Virginia measure became a turning point, Jeffries' biggest swing yet, putting Democrats essentially at parity, if not a potential upper hand in the number of seats gained, and shifting Old Dominion more securely into the party’s column.
—
ABC News,
14 May 2026
Trump has wielded the ceasefire as a carrot and stick, issuing peace overtures one day and threats the next day, all in an attempt to get an upper hand in the negotiations.
—
Sudarsan Raghavan,
New Yorker,
12 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for upper hand
Lisa Mascaro,
Los Angeles Times,
14 May 2026
Does that give an upper hand to British Hamnet star Joe Alwyn?
—
Jason P. Frank,
Vulture,
14 May 2026
The Virginia measure became a turning point, Jeffries' biggest swing yet, putting Democrats essentially at parity, if not a potential upper hand in the number of seats gained, and shifting Old Dominion more securely into the party’s column.
—
ABC News,
14 May 2026
Trump has wielded the ceasefire as a carrot and stick, issuing peace overtures one day and threats the next day, all in an attempt to get an upper hand in the negotiations.
—
Sudarsan Raghavan,
New Yorker,
12 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for upper hand
Recent Examples of Synonyms for upper hand
Noun
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Still, some experts say the lack of awareness may delay some eligible adults from taking advantage of the new coverage and getting on the treatments immediately.
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The Dodgers took full advantage of the Padres’ defensive mistakes to jump-start their offense.
Noun
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The Americans came out energized in the second half and a Berhalter banger from the edge of the penalty area tied it up 2-2 in the 49th minute.
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The Samurai Blue have the edge on shots, 2-1, but Sweden has the lone shot on target so far through 25 minutes.
Noun
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On the road - Drive in the middle lanes and stay on high ground.
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On the road - Drive in the middle lanes and stay on high ground.
Cite this Entry
“Upper hand.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/upper%20hand. Accessed 29 Jun. 2026.
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