lord it over

lord it over — idiom

1. to treat someone in a bossy way because you think you are more important or powe

1.idiomB2
Definition

to treat someone in a bossy way because you think you are more important or powerful than them

Example

Minho lords it over the junior staff now that he is their team leader.

present simple for habitual action: lords it over

Eleni hated how her older sister would lord it over her when they were alone.

would + infinitive for past habit: would lord it over

Common collocations
  • lord it over someone
  • lord it over the rest
  • lord it over the group
Synonyms
  • boss around

    more common in everyday speech; focuses on giving orders rather than asserting superiority

  • pull rank on

    specifically about using one's official position or seniority

  • put on airs

    more about behaving pretentiously than bossing others around

Antonyms

Grammar Patterns

lord it over + person/group

Usage Note

The word 'it' is a fixed part of this idiom — removing it (e.g. 'lord over someone') gives a different, much less common meaning. This phrase is typically used about someone who takes advantage of a senior position or status in a workplace, family, or social group.

Common Mistakes

He lords over his younger colleagues.
He lords it over his younger colleagues.
The 'it' is an essential fixed component of the idiom and cannot be omitted.