Definition
high-handed refers to a behavior or action that is excessively or imperiously overbearing, excessive in authority, or lacking in consideration for others.
Pronunciation
US English
UK English
Part of Speech
Adjective.
Synonyms
overbearing, dictatorial, authoritarian, arbitrary, imperious, autocratic, domineering, bossy, despotic, oppressive.
Antonyms
humble, meek, submissive, yielding, deferential, considerate, accommodating, tactful, diplomatic, kind.
Word Forms
| Part of Speech | Words |
|---|---|
| Noun | high-handedness, high-handednesses |
| Verb | None |
| Adjective | high-handed |
| Adverb | high-handedly |
Example Sentences
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The company’s high-handed approach to employee grievances resulted in numerous lawsuits being filed against it.
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The coach’s high-handed tactics and failure to listen to his players’ opinions resulted in the team’s poor performance.
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The politician’s high-handed behavior towards his opponents and disregard for their views eventually led to his downfall.
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The landlord’s high-handed manner of dealing with tenant complaints and ignoring their requests resulted in a loss of trust and respect among the residents.
Usage
The term ‘high-handed’ is most commonly used to describe a person or their actions when they exercise power or authority in an arbitrary, dictatorial, or overbearing way, often showing a lack of respect or concern for others. This adjective is frequently used to express criticism and disapproval of behavior that is seen as oppressive, authoritarian, domineering, or bossy.
The word ‘high’ in high-handed comes from the Old English ‘heah,’ meaning ’tall, lofty’ or ‘arrogant, haughty,’ which gives the idea of someone who sees themselves as superior or above the rest. The -ed suffix indicates that this is a past participle, suggesting that the person has already acted in a high-handed way, rather than merely planning to do so. The word is also occasionally used in the idiomatic expression ‘a high hand,’ which refers to a person’s tendency to act with arrogance or dominance.
Some synonyms of high-handed include overbearing, dictatorial, authoritarian, arbitrary, imperious, autocratic, domineering, and oppressive. Antonyms include humble, meek, submissive, yielding, deferential, considerate, accommodating, tactful, diplomatic, and kind.
High-handed may be used in various contexts, such as business, politics, law, education, or personal relationships, to describe someone who acts unreasonably or unjustly, abuses power, or shows little regard for the opinions or needs of others. For example, a high-handed approach to management may lead to low morale, high turnover, and legal problems, while a high-handed ruler may face revolt or rebellion from their subjects. In general, high-handed behavior tends to result in negative consequences for the person engaging in it and those affected by it.