UPPER HAND Synonyms: 84 Similar and Opposite Words

upper hand

noun

Definition of upper hand next

as in advantage

the more favorable condition or position in a competition finally gained the upper hand in the argument

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Example Sentences

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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

Recent Examples of Synonyms for upper hand

Noun

With the clock running down, the Spurs stayed cold but the Knicks couldn’t take advantage until OG Anunoby’s dunk with two minutes to go gave his team a three-point lead.

— Kyle Feldscher, CNN Money, 14 June 2026
But, of course, opposing fans have been using what has happened off ice to their advantage.

— Matt Reigle OutKick, FOXNews.com, 14 June 2026