trump

Synonym discussion

Sense: noun/1

All five words can describe something that helps you succeed, but they point to different kinds of strength. An advantage is the broad everyday term for anything that puts you ahead. An edge is usually smaller and more temporary, such as a slight edge in speed or price. An asset is a useful quality or possession that keeps helping over time. A trump is the factor that settles the contest when the pressure is highest, so it often sounds more decisive than advantage or edge. Ace is informal and often suggests a secret or especially impressive strength. A flexible schedule may be a company's trump in hiring, while a calm manner may simply be a personal asset.

Common collocations

Etymology

The word came into English through earlier forms linked to French triomphe and Italian trionfo, both meaning 'triumph'. In card games, the winning suit was originally the triumph suit, and that name later shortened to trump. From the card-game idea of one thing beating the rest, English developed the wider figurative sense of a decisive advantage.