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.

“Iran’s decisions show they believe they have the upper hand, with Trump deterred from renewing the fighting,” said Ofer Guterman, a senior researcher at the Tel Aviv-based Institute for National Security Studies.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 9, 2026

And the Iranians will come into the talks thinking they have the upper hand.

From Slate • Apr. 8, 2026

With both sides dug in and thinking they have the upper hand, it’s unlikely either side will meaningfully roll back export restrictions for now, analysts say.

From Barron's • Oct. 21, 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

She’d probably have the upper hand, too, with all her training.

From "Mockingjay" by Suzanne Collins