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.

See also: ace, all, have

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.

See also: ace, hold

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.

See also: ace, have, hold