1.
high-handed; domineering; overbearing
Behaving in an arrogant, bossy manner, often pressuring others from a position of perceived superiority. Always carries a negative connotation.
Originally a shogi (Japanese chess) term referring to positioning the rook aggressively high on the board. The word came to describe someone who takes an overbearing, aggressive stance in dealings with others.
Common collocations
- 高飛車な態度 (a domineering attitude)
- 高飛車な物言い (high-handed way of speaking)
- 高飛車に出る (to act in a domineering manner)
Usage
Always negative. Describes someone who is condescending and pushes others around, regardless of whether their position actually warrants authority.