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

In a sport where coaches and choreographers often call the shots for young athletes, Liu entered the Olympic stage with programs she didn’t like and clothes she didn’t pick.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 5, 2026

But Dmitry Medvedev doesn’t get to call the shots.

From BBC • Aug. 8, 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

They get to call the shots in the courtroom.

From Slate • Nov. 9, 2023

“You’re always asking, ‘How come I never get to call the shots?’

From "City Spies" by James Ponti