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