at the wheel

Idioms  

1. In command, in control. For example, Ann hated being told what to do; she wanted to be at the wheel by herself. The analogy here is to the steering wheel of an automobile or other vehicle, or the helm of a vessel. For a synonym, see at the helm.

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

at the wheel

If Italy’s barren run was going to end, it was unlikely to come at the wheel of a Ferrari anyway.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Nov. 2, 2026

Riggs said the Teamsters’ safety argument is weakened by the inconsistent safety record of human truck drivers, who have fallen asleep at the wheel or driven while distracted or otherwise impaired.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 29, 2026

Waymo, a subsidiary of Google parent Alphabet, will in the coming weeks start mapping the city's streets and conducting tests with specialist drivers at the wheel.

From Barron's ● Aug. 25, 2026

And in life, they let each other take turns at the wheel, planning events and dates with a notable regard for the other person.

From Salon ● Jul. 5, 2026

Favell was sitting at the wheel, hatless, a cigarette in his mouth.

From "Rebecca" by Daphne du Maurier

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