in the driver's seat

Idioms  

1. Also, in the saddle. In control, in a position of authority. For example, With the boss on vacation, Mr. Burns was in the driver's seat and enjoying it, or She waited until after the election, knowing that she'd be in the saddle then. The first expression dates from the 1800s, the second from the early 1600s. Also see at the helm.

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

in the driver's seat

That’s a sign bond yields are now in the driver’s seat.

From MarketWatch ● Aug. 25, 2026

But my generation also understands AI should only ever be the grease on the wheels, never the one in the driver’s seat.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 4, 2026

Kidd landed in Dallas instead and seemed in the driver’s seat for a long ride until the Doncic trade.

From Los Angeles Times ● May 20, 2026

Her rationale is that it puts brands back in the driver’s seat.

From Barron's ● May 12, 2026

I imagine Dad praying aloud, his eyes drawn heavenward, as he carries his son to the truck and sets him in the driver’s seat.

From "Educated" by Tara Westover