running the show

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "running the show" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe someone who is in charge or managing a situation or event. Example: "During the meeting, Sarah was clearly running the show, making all the important decisions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

So who's running the show?

The Economist

Simply amazing running the show".

The New York Times

Now, apparently, they're running the show.

Independent

"Donnie's running the show," D'Antoni said.

The New York Times

He's the guy running the show!

Independent

He was kind of running the show".

The New York Times

Barry's not running the show.

The New York Times - Sports

A d.j. was running the show.

The New Yorker

Men were still running the show.

The New York Times

You monkeys are not running the show.

The Guardian

The lawyers are running the show now".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "running the show" when you want to emphasize someone's control and decision-making power, especially in a dynamic or public setting.

Common error

Avoid using "running the show" when describing someone who only has limited influence or is merely executing instructions from a higher authority. The phrase implies comprehensive control and responsibility.

Linguistic Context

The idiomatic phrase "running the show" functions as a noun phrase complement or predicate nominative, describing the role or position of someone who is in control. As Ludwig AI confirms, it correctly portrays someone managing a situation or event. Its role is to highlight the control and decision-making power someone possesses.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

8%

Less common in

Reference

6%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "running the show" is a common and grammatically sound idiomatic phrase used to describe someone in control or managing a situation. Ludwig confirms this, highlighting its widespread usage across diverse contexts, particularly in news and media. While generally neutral in register, it's best suited for less formal communications. For more formal settings, alternatives like "being in charge" or "managing affairs" may be more appropriate. Despite its versatility, ensure the phrase accurately reflects the scope of control the subject possesses. Understanding this phrase's nuances can greatly improve your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

being in control

Focuses more on the state of having power rather than the act of exercising it.

calling the shots

A more informal idiom that emphasizes decision-making authority.

at the helm

Implies leadership and guidance, particularly in a challenging situation.

in the driver's seat

Suggests control and direction, often in a competitive or dynamic environment.

calling the plays

Similar to "calling the shots", often used in sports or strategic contexts.

managing affairs

Emphasizes the administrative aspect of being in charge.

taking the reins

Suggests assuming control after a transition or vacancy.

in command

A more formal term for being in control, often used in military or hierarchical contexts.

overseeing operations

Focuses on the supervision and management of activities.

dictating terms

Implies exerting strong control and influence over others.

FAQs

What does it mean to say someone is "running the show"?

Saying someone is "running the show" means they are in charge, making the important decisions, and generally controlling how things are done.

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

You might say, "The new CEO is now "in charge" and really running the show" or "After the founder retired, his daughter took over and is now running the show".

What are some alternatives to "running the show"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "calling the shots", "being in control", or "at the helm".

Is "running the show" a formal or informal expression?

"Running the show" is generally considered an informal expression. While it can be used in some business contexts, it's more common in casual conversation or news reporting rather than formal academic writing. Use "managing affairs" if you want to sound more formal.