Holding sway is a term that represents being in power or dominating a particular situation. It has numerous antonyms or opposite words that can be used to describe a lack of control or influence. Some of the most common antonyms for holding sway include being powerless, weak, subordinated, subdued, inferior, insignificant, subordinate, and incapacitated. If someone is not holding sway, they may be considered to lack authority, influence, or dominance over a particular environment or circumstance. In contrast, if someone is holding sway, they are considered to be controlling, leading, or dominating in a particular situation.