The manager maintained firm control over the project.
tight grip
Frequency:
50
%
He held onto the rope with a tight grip.
iron fist
Frequency:
45
%
The dictator ruled with an iron fist.
dominant position
Frequency:
40
%
The company maintained a dominant position in the market.
Idiomatic Expressions for whip hand
Phrase: Get the whip hand
Meaning: To gain control or power over a situation or person
Usage: After the new manager took charge, he quickly got the whip hand in the office.