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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.


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.

"You're driving with rare earths when you're at the wheel of an electric car, and you need rare earths to make defence materiel like F-35 jets," he added.

From Barron's

“Avatar: Fire and Ash” feels like a tricked-out station wagon with James Cameron at the wheel speeding us to his favorite spot in the galaxy.

From Los Angeles Times

Nancy's team may be making a mess of it on the pitch but what about the ones above him who, fans might say, have fallen asleep at the wheel?

From BBC

"Intelligent Speed Assistance", as it's known, may feel like a nuisance, beeping away when you are at the wheel.

From BBC

Unconfirmed reports suggest the youngest of the three victims was at the wheel of the car at the time.

From BBC