have/hold the aces
have all the aces
To be in a position of power or control over someone or something else. Likened to having the best hand in a card game. He's bigger than me, and stronger, and faster—he just has all the aces.
hold (all) the aces
To be in a position of power or control over someone or something due to having all the advantages or resources. Likened to having the best hand in a card game. He's bigger than me, and stronger, and faster—he just holds all the aces.
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2015 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
have/hold (all) the ˈaces
(also hold all the ˈcards) be in a controlling position because you have certain advantages over another person: The Labour Party candidate holds all the aces — he’s local and well liked.Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017