# throw one's weight around

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/throw-ones-weight-around
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To exercise influence or authority, especially to an excessive degree or in an objectionable manner.

## Examples

- He likes to throw his weight around at the office.
- The new manager tries to throw his weight around, but the staff ignores his unreasonable demands.
- Despite having no official authority, the consultant continued to throw his weight around, alienating the very team he was hired to assist.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.