English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Call the shots
Meaning
The idiom "call the shots" is a popular expression used in many contexts, including business, sports, and military operations. It means that someone has the power to make decisions or take charge of a situation. In other words, they are the ones who are in control.
The literal meaning of "call the shots" refers to someone who is in charge of making decisions or taking action. This can include things like calling meetings, giving orders, or making strategic decisions. In the figurative sense, "calling the shots" means that someone has power and influence over a situation. They may not necessarily be the one making all the decisions, but they are the ones who have the most say in how things are done.
Usage
- As the team leader, John gets to call the shots when it comes to how they approach each game.
- In business, the CEO is often the one who calls the shots and makes all the major decisions for the company.
- During military operations, the general in charge of the mission has to make tough decisions and call the shots when necessary.
- As a project manager, Sarah gets to decide how her team works and sets priorities, essentially calling the shots on how things are done.
- In sports, the coach is often the one who calls the shots and makes decisions about what plays to run and when to make substitutions.
Roots and History
The phrase "call the shots" has its origins in the military. During battles, generals would be responsible for making decisions and giving orders to their soldiers on the battlefield. If they were successful, they could claim victory and "call the shots" on how things were done after the battle. The idiom has been used in business and sports as well, with similar meanings. Over time, the idiom has become more common and its meaning has broadened to include other situations where someone is in charge of making decisions or taking action.
Synonyms in English
- Call the shots
- Be the one in charge
- Take control
- Make the call
- Decide what happens
Synonyms in other languages
- Spanish - Decir la palabra clave (to say the key word)
- French - Lancer le signal (to give the signal)
- German - Auf die Kante treten (to take charge)
- Italian - Prender la parola (to take the lead)
- Portuguese - Assumir a direção (to assume command)