What makes a man more "alpha" or dominant towards another man?

Question

Taller? Stronger? Smarter? What do you men and women think? I personally think beating another in combat or in a fight makes you more superior no matter what.

Quintessence · Accepted Answer

It's about rank, really--and that depends on setting. The way rank is established varies from one setting to another. In the bar scene, for example, it's all about physicality: here, one's body stats, like height, weight, build, ability to hold their own in a fistfight, etc. contribute to dominance more than, say, intellect or wit (cause no matter how clever you are or how much of a gift for gab you've got, if someone drunk off their ass is coming at you or your girl, it's all about how effectively you can dodge their punch and come back with your own).
Alternately, in a corporate setting, it's the total opposite: here, it's all about negotiation skills, charm, tact, wit, intellect, etc. Universally speaking, the quantity and quality of one's material possessions is a key factor in establishing dominance and, of course, it doesn't hurt to be tall, dark, and handsome BUT all of those can go out the door if the guy lacks one very important trait: confidence. He can be the richest, most good-looking guy ever, but if he's unsure of himself, he'll be a doormat for anyone looking to take advantage and eventually end up some sleazy woman's piggy bank.
So, in the end, it comes down to how confident you are in yourself and your abilities, and how well you can establish your rank in a particular setting using those abilities (or possessions or accomplishments or what have you).

Imafreespirit · Accepted Answer

someone that doesn't feel the need to label himself. A man that calls my attention and stands out is the one that doesn't give a shit about society's opinion/standards and stays true to himself, someone that respects other people and doesn't try to put himself above, someone with goals, determination and passion, someone that is not scared to be different and is not scared to try new things, someone with a kind heart that is down to earth and takes the lead when the situation demands it. That's what I consider a real man.

kaylaS91 · Accepted Answer

umm.. not looking at their t-level of muscle mass as indicative of their 'manliness'?

I mean.. manliness, if you're into that whole fiasco, is much closer to being a gentleman rather than a meathead. So to me, you're more respectful of a man if you're able to remain composed with a good sense of reason, even after the shit hits the fan, rather than resorting to primitive tactics like puffing out and the works.

DomDaBomb · Accepted Answer

Some people saying it's a useless title and all... Huh? Being the alpha male is part of the game. To get a girl worthwhile, you should know how to present yourself. That said, I usually think of an alpha male someone who stands out. And it's not that simple. Just being able to stand out as someone who takes care of their body. Eating healthy and proper excercise for the appearance. Plus, Hygeine is also something. Hygiene would be number one in my opinion as it is very important. Then there are the clothes you wear. Something nice that is well kept would do. Then there is your personality. Gotta be gentle with the ladies, but don't be afraid to be rough sometimes. They like it that way. Also, like other comments an alpha male would need to be a good leader. To be an alpha, you don't follow others... You make your own path to follow. And you are the one with followers. People want to be like you, not the other way around. This is my idea of what an alpha male would be like. I truly don't believe one would be the alpha male just for genetic reasons or anything such as being tall in height or whatever. Being tall does not make anyone more than another. It's all discipline and good manners. Also, I am only 15 so if this seems like total shit, it probably is. Haha. It's just what I find most important as it has helped me a lot in the past.

OlderAndWiser · Accepted Answer

I think the answer depends on the context. If we are in the courthouse, I am the alpha male. If we are in the back alley after dark, I am not so much the alpha.

MzAsh · Answer

Don't concern yourself with trying to be dominant or alpha, that's when you'll autmatically disqualify yourself.

RJGraveyTrain · Answer

To me it's being a leader more than anything. Having authority that people respect.

HungLikeAHorsefly · Answer

Beating someone in a fight is a bit of a weird one. At a basic level, winning a fight is a display of dominance. However, if you were goaded into a fight - if you got into a fight you didn't absolutely have to be in because someone challenged you or called you a name or simply made you angry, then congratulations - you just became the other guy's bitch. Now, if you're forced into a situation in which you or people around you are in danger if you don't fight, then you end it quickly and go on with your life. In that situation, you're the "alpha".

There are other aspects as well. The dominant one does what is necessary, not what he's told. He does not ask permission. He does whatever he likes and gets away with it because others see the value in keeping him around. He is a gentleman to both women and men. He's educated and/or highly skilled at what he does. He has a commanding presence. He is a leader.

It's really more about how you handle yourself, and your ability to communicate with others.

savalisk · Answer

The "alpha" male actually doesn't exist and is more a form of fiction.
In fact, the person who popularized the term actually tried to take down his shoddy research on the matter once he found that the "alpha" wolves in his research were more like mothers and fathers.

Some people often look at chimps and state that the leader of the group is the most dominant and aggressive of the group, with first access to food, resources and mates. This is not always the case, its often been found that smaller mild mannered males can become dominant by performing favors and obsessively grooming other chimps.

Also, unlike some animal species like the chimps, human hierarchies are ALWAYS in flux. So, a dominant male in a nightclub won't necessarily be dominant in a game of Dungeons and Dragons. Unlike animals, humans aren't always the same sort of person in all social situations. We are much more complicated than that.

After all, it's been said that agreeableness, kindness and generosity are some of the best traits that form the most strongest and healthiest relationships.

Tony_1693 · Answer

I think it does have to do with appearance, but more so in how he carries himself. I've seen some goofy looking motherfuckers in the Marine Corps carry themselves in a way that demands respect. I've also seen some GI Joe looking motherfuckers get weak in the knees over some petty shit under stress.

I think it has more to do with intelligence and effective communication skills. That sort of commanding presence that you've probably heard about in police work. When an alpha is in the room, you know he is because everyone sort of gravitates towards him and it creates this aura around him.

None the less, it has to do with leadership. That's the foundation of what an alpha actually is by definition.

Fancygoldfish · Answer

Yes but you can’t be a jerk asshole about it. If you can beat him with brains and avoid a fight that’s alpha. In this video, the two men are both alpha, and want the same thing, but have different approaches. The guy who rescues the dancer is clearly alpha here, but in another situation, the losing guy is prob a fake alpha a lot. And he’s prob a jerk asshole starting fights all the time. A real alpha man is confident and doesn’t need to show off.

Bandit74 · Answer

Combination of intelligence, ability, strength, confidence, deep voice and good looks.

I am not saying they need all of those traits, but they do need some and the more of those traits you possess, the more superior you are.

A lot of people try to deny the influence of appearance, but a short, scrawny, guy with an unnattractive face is unlikely to be perceived as alpha by anyone. Just by googling alpha male it is obvious that being attractive in a masculine way is one of the attributes associated with the term.

A lot of people dont mention this one, but I think a person's voice also impacts how they are perceived. A guy with a high pitched/flamboyant voice and a guy with a deep voice could say the exact same words, but the words spoken by the guy with the masculine voice would carry more weight and be taken more seriously.

Makeuphoarder · Answer

I'd have to agree with physical strength, endurance, battle of the fittest, dog eat dog kinda deal but I believe an alpha is one that leads, isn't afraid to be himself, stands up for what is right and what he believes in. Ultimately a man that takes responsibility for his actions, lives a respectable lifestyle, it's a man that is real rounded. I think several traits play a factor in being the ultimate superior alpha male. It's not just physical strength.

D_Bone_Steak · Answer

Bigger, faster, tougher, stronger, smarter. Those are the basics, but even these are pointless if their emotions are similar to many females... unchecked, expressed to extremes, and at time illogical.

Brains over bronze as well... we're not the apex predators we are for the same reasons other predators have carved out their place in the animal kingdom... a bear would rip your shit apart even if you lift and are big as phuck. A smart guy can manipulate factors in their favor if he's wise enough to do it.

NearlyNapping · Answer

The pecking order starts as soon as you meet someone. You shake their hand, look them in the eye, and both people know right then what the pecking order is (which may be neutrality). Taller or stronger may come into play, but only if the other person is intimidated by it. It's really about confidence, and how you feel about yourself.

Even though the pecking order is established right away, it can change over time. Over time, smarter may come into play, but I think it's less of a factor than other things.

Anonymous · Answer

No, you are wrong. Being able to avoid conflict is smarter and more "alpha". Beat someone in a fight? Your card is marked, so expect some serious reprisals where YOU get beaten. Now that ain't a smart way of living!

Personally, I do not think there are any Alpha men. Just men who THINK they are. They do not impress this little bitch, so they go to the back of the queue as Omega men.

Kiwedin · Answer

I never really thought of an "alpha" as being dominant because of purely physical characteristics like height, strength, stature, and fighting ability, but more of a charisma. Someone who is intelligent, someone who commands respect just by being who they are, without using force or intimidation. I see him as someone who's incredibly confident, who knows who they are and what they stand for. Someone for others to look up to. I guess, the qualities of a leader.

Nyx_85 · Answer

It's their attitude. They are leaders. Other men want to be like them. When they talk people listen. When they walk into a room the whole atmosphere changes. They command respect without saying a thing. They aren't putting on a show and pretending to be something they aren't by wearing expensive clothing and puffing up their chests. They can walk in wearing shorts, a shirt and sandals and people will still take notice. They don't need to be taller than everyone else either. They are more 'alpha' toward other men because those men respect them. Not because they are beaten into submission.

Dale1982 · Answer

Your right. If you can smack him about in a fight your calling the shots assuming he wants to be anywhere near you after. Violence, when you get right down to it, is the only dividing factor in this world. The only fools who can't see it are the ones who hid most of their lives and never took a stand. They hate violent men coz deep down they're jealous and bitter they can't be that way

Mitch6192 · Answer

Taller is the obvious one I'd say. Like... it's a clear visual indication of 'This is a better specimen'.

What I do to combat this (As I'm on 5'9, is I treat taller men like they are my little brother. Like... I'll put them first, and put my arm around them and stuff. This way (In a way) I can take a girls, anyone's mind off the height difference (Who happens to be around)

This works especially well when I'm at work. The guys girlfriends usually don't like it, as they want their boyfriend to seem like the dominant one haha.

rjroy3 · Answer

It's all about behavior in my book, but usually comes with certain physical character traits as well. Like a strong confident voice. A guy doesn't have to be dominating other people, just his environment. If he's always at ease in am environment and moves with purpose for what he wants in said environment without fear, then to me that's the alpha male.

You don't have to be a physical specimen to be an alpha male. But I would agree on some level with your fight comparison. The idea of who would win in a fight is part of male hierarchy. But the cool thing is alpha males aren't highlanders. There's no "There can only be one" scenario lol

NeeleyCM · Answer

Being willing and able to take charge of a situation and leading from the front. Risking life and limb to protect others, and setting a standard and being a shining example of moral honor, courage and commitment for the next generation to live up to and to surpass. We do not live our lives for only ourselves, but to honor those who have come before, and to encourage those who come after.

Jmo232323 · Answer

In the wild alpha males are determined in a fight. So in literal terms of you want to be a alpha male you would need to find a guy leading a group beat him in competition, steal his women and take over the group.

I don't think alpha males exist in human nature. The closest comparison would probably be combat sports. Since we are not wild animals we don't operate under the pretense of being alpha or not. We have more than one purpose, what makes me better than that guy? What makes that guy better than me? If I'm living my life the way I want to and chasing my dreams then there is no reason to compare myself with another guy because we do not have the same purpose in life.

hellionthesagereborn · Answer

I don't, I think its attitude and behavior. You win a fight so what? What happens if at the first sign of difficulty you run away? Then your not really "alpha" are you? What happens when you have to take responsibility and you flee from it? Doesn't matter how much muscle you have your still "beta". Its attitude, ability to act in a masculine way i. e. confidence and a strength of will, the ability to be self aware and to be able to do what needs doing even when others can't muster the courage or will to do it.

ShortCircuit · Answer

It's whoever monopolizes the females.

If we lived in the wild and still behaved like primitive animals, simply the physically strongest male would be the alpha male. Why? He could force any competing male into submission, and rape as many females by force as he pleased.

Since we live in a society that legally punishes rape, the most physically attractive male would be the alpha male. Why? Strength means nothing when you can't use it. The men who are most attractive are most capable of having consensual sex. They win no matter how many times they get beaten up.

TangiblyTravis · Answer

Depends on your location, culture, society's behavior, upbringing, insecurities, etc.

Some guys just don't even care.
Some of us don't seek that kind of competitive nature, but it comes naturally.

Another thing is who is defining "alpha make", and what is their personal definition of it.

To some women "alpha male" is a physical thing, for others it's a guy's mentality.
Others, it is both, fir others it is all irrelevant to them and their desires.

But i think a simple answer would be anything that the man feels threatened by will be his adversary.
This happens in humanity naturally.

stardust101 · Answer

When a man doesn't try to be alpha or even have that stuck in his head

1truekhaleesi · Answer

Being a leader and being respected. Basically having your shit together but not bragging about it because there's plenty of people that also have their shit together.

Anonymous · Answer

No it is not about being taller or stronger is about his character and personality...
an alpha male... I can feel his presence even without him talking and yes he can be 5'5 too... if you have both physical and character than great
You can be 6'3 and look like a beast but if your conversation = like a 10 years old kid then 😵
I'm surrounded with alpha males 2 of them are my brothers because of them I can notice an alpha male even with in 2 minutes conversation

Corrupted_Unicorn · Answer

Just because you can beat someone in a fight doesn't make you alpha like 😂😂 most of all ot requires a strong and intelligent mind, but if you have that, chances are you know how to break bones, so losing a fight against some moron shouldn't become a problem

DamnMan · Answer

When it comes to war, I'm always the field commander. In peace time, I'm usually a boss. People look to me because they think I can handle anything, which I try to do. Always be sure of yourself, no matter what. And if you're not, get sure.
I agree being able to win your fights is important, but knowing your battles is more important.

ChancellorCharemagne · Answer

Sun Tzu one said to beat a man without Kombat is the height of skill. I myself am a very dominant man, the way this Alpha mentality takes hold of me is not through beating someone else in combat like you said but by being more assertive and really commanding the room with your authority. The way to command the room is just natural, this does not mean that you have to be a dick to everyone. This purely means you have to let everyone know and who's in charge in an eloquent manner.

fenixx0083 · Answer

In my experience, "alphas" are just more willing (eager even) to be more caustic in the way they address others, "if you do not submit or step back, then I will conduct even more verbal apery until you do". And most of us have seen more than one, and know that any idiot can carry that off (words just beget more words, and so on), and generally choose not to waste more time and mental energy, which unfortunately just reaffirms his "alpha" status in his mind.

Basically his parents just didn't bother to raise him right...

BlondieGirl_ · Answer

To me being mature, caring, kind, a man. Having your back and being a strong figure, not being petty about anything. Just being civil really.

LittleSally · Answer

Smarter always triumphs... So I vote for brain power.

TheMoroccangirl · Answer

When I see his testosterone level is higher than average, he is the alpha.  I could recognise that by his appearance, behavior and personality.

HOAAH · Answer

He is more secure in himself, confident that he can achieve his goals, optimistic that life will be just fine. It's his reaction on life, either proactive or just reactive and blaming it on himself and everyone else/acting like a victim of circumstances or he can make his own opportunity.

BarbieLola · Answer

Yeah I agree don't concern yourself with it because it's really just a meaningless title.

4You__ · Answer

Just saying " hey I've planned this for today" or hey " id appreciate it if you didn't do that " just putting their foot down its so hot 💕

AdamED · Answer

Alpha/dominant? Why would anyone want that? What's the point? How's that helping the world and making it a better place? Or is it just the thirst of power to prove that a man exists? Long story short, stupid question.

Humbledman74006 · Answer

Physical influence is factor, although a mich smarter man can easily defeat physically stronger men.

An alpha male heavily influences the environment, regardless of the scenario. They are seen as a leader amoungst men.

Today's alpha acts with dignity and respect, has intelligence above average, composure and compassion. They are respected for what they bring to the table.

Basing it merely on physical is short term.

shy_girl96 · Answer

I think its a combination of beating them in a fight, smarter, more ego, better looking, etc.

Phoenix98 · Answer

Bumping into someone. Encroaching on their territory or women. Competition. Confidence.  Fighting. Defined features.

SarahsSummer · Answer

His confidence. Your definition may be the case in elementary school, but those guys are also called bullies. And bullies are NOT "alpha" men.

RussianGal17 · Answer

I think some of it is physical appearance, probably 40%. But the other 60% would be being a 'leader' rather than a 'follower', in the terms that some of it has to do with intelligence i. e. The difference between CEO's and assistants. Neither is bad, the jobs just require different types of personality.

MrOracle · Answer

Having confidence, taking charge of situations, making consistently good decisions and being consistently competent. Also being focused and not being lazy or playing the victim.

oddwaffle · Answer

For men it's simple: Confidence and Strength. It's the quickest way to establish dominance amount a group of men. You show you are extremely strong and you know what you are doing.

JDavid25 · Answer

When a man knows how to be a man.. When he's strong, tenacious, and convicting in a way.. When he knows how to be a leader.. Men respect men who know how to lead..

DonkeyRick69 · Answer

Beating another man in a fight does not make you more dominant or more alpha it just means your a better fighter.
It's not height, strength or brains but a combination of things that make up the man. An alpha male can't be dominated just because another beat him in a fight simply because he would not submit. An Alpha male leads when others would only follow.

What makes a man more "alpha" or dominant towards another man?

Anonymous · Answer

Beating someone in a fight (unless both parties agreed to have a friendly "fight" ) does not make you superior. Only weak (mentally, not physically) people want to beat up other people, as they do not have any other way of persuading / impressing others. The concept of alpha and beta people was invented by arrogant nasty people who have no regard for others and use the "alpha" title to justify their disgusting behaviour, instead of helping other people and being a useful member of society.

princiee · Answer

Acumen, nimbleness, nobility, cogency, ingenuity, perspicuity, grandiloquent, affluence, eloquent, professional, magnanimity, etc

Tall_Shy_Me · Answer

Technically, an "alpha" doesn't exist because anyone can be a more domain person. You could be tough and scary in a fight but you can't be the "alpha" in a chess game if you can't play the game. (If that makes sense 😂😂)

Iron_Man · Answer

Kicking someone's ass shows that your the more Superior dominant alpha male. I agree with you

chadi3269 · Answer

It all depends on the strong personality and being ur own strong character not a fake shit who follows other. always be a leader and never a follower

Anonymous · Answer

Voting for Trump and supporting Police all the time.

Peach16 · Answer

Someone who stands up for himself and others. Someone who has morals and loves all living beings. Someone who protects and loves.

Jonestaylor16 · Answer

Lol I'm not really a leader per say, I'm more of someone sitting in the background ready to react if need be. Don't get me wrong I'll still lead and such but only if I absolutely have to. So I guess you could call me an hidden "alpha"? But I like the name apex predator though 😂

holdmybreath · Answer

His depth of awareness about himself. Who he is and what he isn't. What he stands for and against. What he's willing to do to achieve what he's decided he wants then commits and executes til success or death comes. In a nutshell its about picking a team. Smoker or non smoker. Etc etc etc Picking the team and staying the course. There. Now you know. Everything else just falls in place behind a man with direction and purpose

HiBye101 · Answer

Pack leaders are the most dominant think of wolf packs..

Thia18 · Answer

When they know how to use their opponents strengths against them. If you wanna watch this:

JayCee22 · Answer

A man who is decisive. Confidant and sure of himself. Does what ever the fuck he wants when he wants and doesn’t care about how it looks to others. His posture is strong and makes eye contact... makes the other person look away first. Won’t be told what to do. Will stand up for what he believes in. A man who takes charge. And finally... a man who knows exactly what he wants to eat when asked the question what do you wanna eat?

ShownDown · Answer

Not giving a shit bout who's "alpha" or who's "cooler" will automatically make you more of a man. Real men are focused on their own life, and not stature.

Andyfitzgerald · Answer

The earth these days... from Hollywood. ca to Oregon and from Maine to Florida has all become the wild. Your considered to be a dominant person if you beat someone up sounds like a lion breaking a gazelles neck for food

I don't disagree with you it all depends who's stronger it always has.

Tania_bilkis · Answer

Its about having an aura of confidence, authority and being sure what you're doing.

What makes a man more "alpha" or dominant towards another man?

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