English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Top dog
Meaning
The idiom "top dog" is a common expression used to describe someone who is the best or most respected among their peers. It can also refer to someone who is in charge, has power, or is highly influential. In a more figurative sense, it can be used to describe someone who is confident and successful, but does not necessarily have official leadership status.
Usage
- As the CEO of the company, John was the top dog and had all the power to make decisions.
- After years of hard work and dedication, Sarah finally became the top dog in her field.
- Mike was always the top dog at school, winning awards and recognition for his academic achievements.
- In the corporate world, the CEO is often considered the top dog, setting the tone for the entire company.
- When it comes to sports, the quarterback is typically considered the top dog, leading the team to victory on the field.
Roots and History
The idiom "top dog" originated in the 19th century and was first used in print in the 1880s. It is believed to have originated from a phrase used by herders who would mark their sheep with paint or charcoal on certain parts of their bodies, such as the head or backside, to identify them as leaders. The top dog was marked on the head to distinguish it from other dogs in the flock. Over time, the idiom has evolved to mean more than just a leader in a herding context. It is now used to describe someone who is highly respected and successful in their field, regardless of whether they have official leadership status or not. There are no significant cultural or regional variations of this idiom.
Synonyms in English
- Alpha male
- Head honcho
- Boss man/woman
- Top brass
- Captain of industry
Synonyms in other languages
- In Spanish, the equivalent expression is "el primer hombre" which translates to "the first man." This idiom is used to describe someone who is highly respected and influential in their field, similar to the English expression "top dog."
- In French, the equivalent expression is "le chef" which means "the leader" or "the boss." This idiom is also used to describe someone who is highly respected and influential in their field.
- In Japanese, the equivalent expression is "一位一騎" which translates to "one-rank one-fight." This idiom is used to describe a situation where everyone involved has equal status and is treated equally.
- In Mandarin Chinese, the equivalent expression is "大家的人" which translates to "everybody's person." This idiom is used to describe someone who is well-liked and respected by everyone around them.
- In German, the equivalent expression is "Das Kapital" which means "the capital" or "capitalism." This idiom is used to describe a system where those with the most money or power hold the greatest influence.