call the shots

Idioms  

1. Exercise authority, be in charge, as in It's up to the boss to call the shots. This term probably alludes to determining accuracy in target practice. [Mid-1900s] Also see call the tune.

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Example Sentences

"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

Now, he lets the haunting call the shots, as it guides him to reviving the building however it sees fit.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 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

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

From New York Times • Feb. 9, 2024

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

From "Wintergirls" by Laurie Halse Anderson