WHIP HAND Meaning and
Definition
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Whip hand is a colloquial idiom that refers to having a position of advantage or control in a situation, often due to one's superior position, influence, or power. It implies being in a dominant position over others, particularly in a competitive or confrontational context.
Originating from horse riding, the term derives from the dominant hand used to hold the whip while riding. It conveys the idea of the person holding the whip having an upper hand in controlling and directing the horse. By extension, being in a whip hand position implies having the ability to direct and control the outcome of events or manipulate others to suit one's own interests.
Having the whip hand can also mean having an influential advantage that allows one to dictate the terms or course of action. In interpersonal relationships or negotiations, it suggests having the upper hand in steering the conversation or actions toward one's desired outcome.
Furthermore, the term can be applied to situations where one has leverage or control over others in a specific setting. It highlights the ability to dominate or dictate the actions or decisions of others, often through resource control, positional authority, or superior knowledge.
Overall, the concept of whip hand embodies the idea of having commanding control, power, or influence over others, which enables one to maintain an advantageous position in various circumstances.
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The hand that holds the whip in riding or driving.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for WHIP HAND
- qhip hand
- ahip hand
- ship hand
- ehip hand
- 3hip hand
- 2hip hand
- wgip hand
- wbip hand
- wnip hand
- wjip hand
- wuip hand
- wyip hand
- whup hand
- whjp hand
- whkp hand
- whop hand
- wh9p hand
- wh8p hand
- whio hand
Etymology of WHIP HAND
The phrase "whip hand" has its origins in the sport of horse racing, specifically in the phrase "to have the whip hand". In horse racing, jockeys would use a whip to urge the horse to run faster. Having the "whip hand" meant that the jockey held the whip in their dominant hand, allowing them to exert control and influence over the horse.
Over time, the phrase "whip hand" evolved to be used in a more metaphorical sense, outside of the context of horse racing. It came to represent having the upper hand, control, or an advantage over someone or a situation.
Idioms with the word WHIP HAND
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get, have, hold, etc. the whip hand
The idiom "get, have, hold, etc. the whip hand" means to have control or power over a situation or person. It originated from the image of a horse rider holding a whip, suggesting dominance and the ability to direct or control others. Thus, having the whip hand implies being in a position of authority and having the upper hand in a particular context.
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get the whip hand
To "get the whip hand" is an idiom that means to gain or obtain control or dominance over a situation, person, or group. It originates from horse riding, where the person holding the whip has the control and authority over the horse. In a broader context, it refers to having the upper hand, having the ability to dictate or influence the outcome, or being in a position of power or advantage.
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hold the whip hand
The idiom "hold the whip hand" means to have control, power, or dominance over someone or a situation. It refers to being in a position of authority and influence, usually with the ability to direct or enforce actions or decisions.
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have the whip hand
The idiom "have the whip hand" refers to having control or dominance over a situation or person. It signifies being in a position of power and authority, holding the upper hand, and having the ability to direct or influence others.
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have/hold the whip hand
To "have/hold the whip hand" is an idiom that means to have control, power, or dominance over a situation or person. It refers to the idea of holding a whip, which traditionally symbolizes authority and the ability to impose discipline. Thus, having the whip hand implies being in a position of advantage or leverage where one can assert authority or dictate the course of events.
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