run the show

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "run the show" is a commonly used and correct phrase in written English.
It means to be in charge or control of a situation or event. Example: "My boss always likes to be the one to run the show during meetings, but I don't mind because it takes the pressure off of me."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Reference

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

They run the show.

The New York Times

I run the show.

The New York Times - Sports

Run the show.

The New York Times - Sports

They run the show, literally.

The New York Times - Style

Certainly she likes to run the show.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The lobby did not run the show.

The Guardian - Opinion

We don't want to run the show.

The Guardian

The evening is unstructured, and the kids run the show.

Independent

The elders are exasperated, but the toddlers run the show.

The New York Times

He hung back and let older teammates run the show.

The New York Times - Sports

In short, it is the filmmakers who run the show.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "run the show" when you want to emphasize someone's control and decision-making authority in a particular situation. It is suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "run the show" when referring to shared responsibilities or collaborative efforts where no single person has complete authority. This idiom implies a clear leader, so it's best suited for scenarios where one person is undeniably in charge.

Linguistic Context

The idiomatic expression "run the show" functions as a verb phrase indicating someone's active control or leadership. Ludwig AI confirms this phrase is correct and widely used. Examples show its application in contexts ranging from business to personal relationships, emphasizing the subject's dominant role.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

15%

Reference

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the idiomatic expression "run the show" is a very common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe someone who is in control or has the final say in a situation. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it’s applicable across various contexts, particularly in news, business, and general conversation. While "run the show" maintains a relatively neutral tone, it is crucial to ensure its application aligns with contexts where a single person indeed holds primary authority. Alternatives like "be in charge", "take the reins", and "call the shots" provide nuanced ways to express similar concepts. Remember that while "run the show" is versatile, it should accurately reflect the leadership dynamics of the described situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be in charge

Focuses on the aspect of holding a position of authority or responsibility.

take the reins

Emphasizes the act of assuming control or leadership, often in a proactive manner.

call the shots

Highlights the decision-making power and the ability to influence outcomes.

be at the helm

Suggests guidance and direction, similar to steering a ship.

be the leader

Directly states the role of leading and guiding others.

take control

Highlights the action of assuming authority and managing a situation.

have the upper hand

Indicates an advantage in a situation, allowing one to exert influence.

be the head honcho

An informal way of saying someone is in charge.

be the master of ceremonies

Focuses on someone controlling event execution and flow.

exercise authority

Emphasizes the act of using one's power to direct and influence.

FAQs

How can I use "run the show" in a sentence?

You can use "run the show" to describe someone who is in control or has the final say in a particular situation. For example, "The CEO "runs the show" at the company."

What are some alternative ways to say "run the show"?

Alternatives include "be in charge", "take the reins", or "call the shots". These phrases all convey the idea of having control or authority.

Is "run the show" formal or informal?

"Run the show" is considered an idiomatic expression and can be used in both formal and informal settings, although it leans slightly towards the informal side. In very formal contexts, consider using "be in control" or "manage the affairs".

What's the difference between "run the show" and "help run the show"?

"Run the show" implies being the primary person in charge, while "help run the show" suggests assisting the person who is ultimately responsible. The former denotes leadership, while the latter denotes support.