call the shots
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.
"They are absolutely emaciated - and have limited powers to raise revenue, appoint people, allocate funds. Instead, it is the chief ministers of the states who act like super mayors and call the shots."
From BBC • Dec. 28, 2025
But ultimately, it’s the university administrators who call the shots.
From Slate • May 27, 2025
Jorge Frias, secretary general of the Argentine fishing captains’ union, explained that on Argentine-flagged ships, the Chinese call the shots.
From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 4, 2024
Olympic Committee and its associated entities call the shots for all kid athletes, not just aspirants to gold medals and college athletic scholarships.
From Salon • Aug. 3, 2024
“You’re always asking, ‘How come I never get to call the shots?’
From "City Spies" by James Ponti
