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.

The fire briefly threatened homes in the area before firefighters were able to gain the upper hand, the department said.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 7, 2026

History suggests that Ukraine’s strategy will give it the upper hand.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jul. 7, 2026

Gabriel appeared to have the upper hand as Haaland was limited to only a single touch inside the box before the break.

From BBC • Jul. 6, 2026

With Rhaenyra’s dragons on their side, the Velaryon armada should have the upper hand.

From Salon • Jun. 21, 2026

I guess the cap’n seent who had the upper hand here and changed his attitude.

From "The Journey of Little Charlie" by Christopher Paul Curtis