calling the shots

USAGE SUMMARY

"calling the shots" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It means to be in control or in charge of a situation or decision-making process. Example: "As the CEO, it's my responsibility to make the final decisions and call the shots for the company's future."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

They're not calling the shots.

The Economist

Carey says he's calling the shots now.

The New Yorker

He's calling the shots right now.

The Guardian - Sport

"Now he is calling the shots".

The Guardian

Men had been "calling the shots".

The New Yorker

"He's already calling the shots, making decisions.

The New York Times

Apparently the mullahs are calling the shots.

The New York Times

It's they who are calling the shots.

The Guardian - Opinion

They were the ones calling the shots".

The New York Times - Sports

It is not clear who is calling the shots.

The Economist

For once, he was not calling the shots.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "calling the shots" when you want to emphasize the power or authority someone has in a specific situation. It is effective in describing leadership roles and decision-making processes.

Common error

Avoid using "calling the shots" to describe minor decisions or tasks. The phrase implies significant control and responsibility; using it for trivial matters can diminish its impact and create a false sense of importance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "calling the shots" functions as an idiomatic expression, signifying the act of being in control and making important decisions. Ludwig provides numerous examples of its use across varied contexts, affirming its established place in the English lexicon.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "calling the shots" is a common and accepted idiomatic expression used to describe someone in control, as confirmed by Ludwig's analysis and numerous real-world examples. Primarily found in News & Media, this phrase denotes authority and decision-making power. While generally neutral in register, alternative phrases may be preferable in formal business contexts. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct. Effective use involves understanding the weight of the phrase and avoiding it in trivial contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

being in charge

Focuses on the state of having control rather than the act of directing.

making the decisions

Highlights the act of decision-making as the primary aspect of control.

at the helm

Emphasizes leadership and guidance, often in a formal or organizational context.

running the show

Conveys the idea of managing and directing an event or operation.

in control

Highlights the state of managing and having power over someone or something.

taking the lead

Suggests initiating and guiding actions or decisions.

pulling the strings

Implies a more behind-the-scenes, manipulative form of control.

calling the tune

Suggests setting the agenda or dictating the direction of events.

laying down the law

Suggests setting rules and enforcing them strictly.

wearing the trousers

Emphasizes dominance, especially in a relationship or household.

FAQs

How can I use "calling the shots" in a sentence?

You can use "calling the shots" to describe someone who is in charge and making important decisions. For example, "The CEO is "being in charge" and calling the shots for the company's new strategy".

What's a similar phrase to "calling the shots"?

Alternatives to "calling the shots" include "making the decisions", "running the show", or "being at the helm", all indicating someone is in control.

Is "calling the shots" formal or informal?

"Calling the shots" is generally considered an informal idiom suitable for everyday conversation and writing, but less appropriate for highly formal or academic contexts. It can be replaced in more professional contexts with phrases such as "exercising control" or "making the key decisions".

Is it appropriate to use "calling the shots" in a business context?

Yes, but use it judiciously. While "calling the shots" is understandable, consider alternatives like "taking the lead" or "directing the strategy" for a more professional tone.