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.

"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

Now, he lets the haunting call the shots, as it guides him to reviving the building however it sees fit.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 4, 2024

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

From New York Times • Feb. 9, 2024

They get to call the shots in the courtroom.

From Slate • Nov. 9, 2023

And now I was finally in a position to call the shots.

From "From Twinkle, with Love" by Sandhya Menon