make the rules

VERB

call the shots

Synonyms

WEAK

be in control be in the driver's seat be in the saddle call the tune lay down the law make the decisions run the show wear the trousers

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.

And while you can’t control your guests’ habits, hosts can make the rules.

From Salon • Nov. 26, 2025

Roberts once famously compared judges to umpires who call balls and strikes, but don’t make the rules.

From Washington Times • Dec. 31, 2023

He said: "It is important that those who make the rules abide by them and I resigned in order to take accountability."

From BBC • Dec. 1, 2023

Hogg Hummock landowner Richard Banks equated that to the county letting lawbreakers make the rules.

From Seattle Times • Sep. 12, 2023

Who got to make the rules up, and how did you add to them or take away from them?

From "March Forward, Girl" by Melba Pattillo Beals