call the shots

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

In a sport where coaches and choreographers often call the shots for young athletes, Liu entered the Olympic stage with programs she didn’t like and clothes she didn’t pick.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 5, 2026

"They are absolutely emaciated - and have limited powers to raise revenue, appoint people, allocate funds. Instead, it is the chief ministers of the states who act like super mayors and call the shots."

From BBC • Dec. 28, 2025

But ultimately, it’s the university administrators who call the shots.

From Slate • May 27, 2025

But even he acknowledged that Mr. Trump was getting closer to being able to call the shots.

From New York Times • Feb. 9, 2024

Mom, acid-eyes: You coddle her, you let her call the shots.

From "Wintergirls" by Laurie Halse Anderson