hold sway

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Definition

Verb phrase: - To be master; to reign or rule; to have dominant influence or control: The phrase "hold sway" means to exercise power, authority, or controlling influence over a person, group, area, or situation.

Usage
  • This phrase is used to describe a state of dominance or prevailing influence. It often implies that the subject's power, ideas, or presence are the most significant in a given context.
  • It is typically followed by a prepositional phrase beginning with "over" to specify the domain of influence.
Examples
  • Verb phrase:
    • The king held sway over the entire region for decades. (The king ruled the entire region for decades.)
    • Traditional beliefs still hold sway in many rural communities. (Traditional beliefs still have dominant influence in many rural communities.)
    • No single theory holds sway in the field of quantum physics. (No single theory is the dominant one in the field of quantum physics.)
Advanced Usage
  • "to hold sway over someone's heart/mind": to have a powerful emotional or intellectual influence on someone.
    • Her words held sway over his mind long after she had left. (Her words continued to influence his thoughts powerfully long after she had left.)
Variants and Related Words
  • Sway (verb): To move slowly or rhythmically back and forth; to influence or control.
    • The trees swayed in the wind.
    • He is not easily swayed by emotional arguments.
  • Sway (noun): Power or influence; a swinging or bending motion.
    • The country fell under the sway of a dictator.
    • The sway of the bridge made her feel dizzy.
Synonyms
  • Dominate: To have a commanding influence on; to be the most powerful.
  • Prevail: To be widespread or current; to prove more powerful.
  • Reign: To hold royal office; to be predominant.
  • Rule: To exercise ultimate power or authority.
Related Phrases
  • Hold power: To possess and exercise authority.
    • The coalition held power for only a short time.
  • Wield influence: To use influence effectively.
    • She wields considerable influence in the industry.
Idioms
  • Hold the reins: To be in control.
    • With the CEO gone, the vice president now holds the reins.
  • Call the shots: To be the person who makes the decisions.
    • In this project, the lead designer calls the shots.
Verb
  1. be master; reign or rule