upper hand
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to gain/take over
To gain control or dominance in a situation; to prevail over other forces or influences. The word is used almost exclusively in this fixed expression.
Als die Panik die Überhand gewann, rannten alle zum Ausgang.
When panic gained the upper hand, everyone ran to the exit.
The noun 'Überhand' is used almost exclusively in the fixed expressions 'die Überhand gewinnen' or 'die Überhand nehmen' (to gain/take over; to gain the upper hand). It describes something taking control.
Das Unkraut im Garten hat die Überhand genommen.
The weeds in the garden have taken over.
The word is made up of 'über' (over/above) and 'Hand' (hand). It conveys the image of having the 'upper hand' in a situation and therefore having control or dominance.
In der Diskussion gewannen seine Argumente schnell die Überhand.
In the discussion, his arguments quickly gained the upper hand.
The expression is often used with negative or uncontrollable forces as the subject. Typical examples are: die Angst, die Zweifel, das Chaos, or die Gefühle nehmen die Überhand (fear, doubts, chaos, or emotions take over).
Lass nicht zu, dass deine Zweifel die Überhand gewinnen.
Don't allow your doubts to gain the upper hand.
upper hand
Both words describe something prevailing or gaining control. “Die Oberhand” is especially appropriate for the stronger side in a confrontation and can also refer to maintaining a position. “Die Überhand” is used almost exclusively in “Überhand nehmen” or “gewinnen” and usually emphasizes the increasing dominance of an influence.
In dem überfüllten Büro nahm der Lärm allmählich die Überhand.
In the overcrowded office, the noise gradually took over.
Nach einer langen Debatte gewann die erfahrene Mannschaft die Oberhand.
After a long debate, the more experienced team gained the upper hand.
