Definitions

call the shots

VERB

be in charge

Synonyms

WEAK

be in control be in the driver's seat be in the saddle call the tune lay down the law make the decisions make the rules run the show wear the trousers

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"I call all the shots. He doesn't call the shots," he was quoted as saying.

From BBC • Jun. 8, 2026

“You want to be able to call the shots as you see them, true to the law,” Pines said in an interview.

From Los Angeles Times • May 30, 2026

But even he acknowledged that Mr. Trump was getting closer to being able to call the shots.

From New York Times • Feb. 9, 2024

They get to call the shots in the courtroom.

From Slate • Nov. 9, 2023

Mom, acid-eyes: You coddle her, you let her call the shots.

From "Wintergirls" by Laurie Halse Anderson