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

See Examples For:

call the shots

The role of prime minister does not typically include a say on military strategy or frontline operations, where Zelensky and his military chiefs call the shots.

From Barron's ● Jul. 12, 2026

Those who have done so said it can provide an outlet for the skills and experience they have accumulated over decades, or perhaps a chance to try something new or finally call the shots.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 8, 2026

While other superstars in this town call the shots, Betts simply absorbs.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 10, 2024

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

From BBC ● Aug. 8, 2024

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

From "Wintergirls" by Laurie Halse Anderson