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to have (all) the aces
01
to be in an advantageous position when competing against someone else
![to [have|hold] (all|) the aces definition and meaning](https://cdn.langeek.co/photo/40077/original/?type=jpeg "to [have|hold] (all|) the aces definition and meaning")
Idiom
InformalWhat is the origin of the idiom "have the aces" and when to use it?
The phrase likely dates back to the 19th century when gambling was a popular pastime, and people frequently used card-related expressions in everyday language. Over time, the phrase "have the aces" has been adopted in broader contexts to describe any situation where someone holds a position of power or advantage.
Examples
The basketball team holds the aces with their great players, teamwork, and strong coach, so they are likely to win the game.
The negotiator held all the aces with their persuasive arguments, information, and bargaining power, and got a favorable deal.
