Call the shots/tune

verb

To make decisions or control something.

In this office, it's the boss who calls the shots.
Visual representation of "call the shots/tune" - To make decisions or control something

Often appears as...

  • she calls the shots
  • start calling the shots

Usage tips

Idiomatic

verb

To choose the conditions or requirements for something being done.

Since it's your birthday, you can call the tune.
Visual representation of "call the shots/tune" - To choose the conditions or requirements for something being done

Often appears as...

  • he calls the tune
  • call the tune at home

Usage tips

Idiomatic

verb

To make decisions or control something.

In this office, it's the boss who calls the shots.
Visual representation of "call the shots/tune" - To make decisions or control something

Often appears as...

  • she calls the shots
  • start calling the shots

Usage tips

Idiomatic

verb

To choose the conditions or requirements for something being done.

Since it's your birthday, you can call the tune.
Visual representation of "call the shots/tune" - To choose the conditions or requirements for something being done

Often appears as...

  • he calls the tune
  • call the tune at home

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "call the shots/tune"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Authority Signifier

Indicates who is in charge or has the power in a situation.

Illustration for Authority Signifier
During the game, the coach calls the shots, not the players.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Responsibility Implication

Suggests the person making decisions also bears the responsibility for the outcomes.

Illustration for Responsibility Implication
As project manager, you'll call the shots and handle any issues that arise.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Power Dynamics

Used to discuss who has more power or say in a group or situation.

Illustration for Power Dynamics
In their partnership, it's generally Jane who calls the shots.
LampPro Tip 1/3

Authority Signifier

Indicates who is in charge or has the power in a situation.

Illustration for Authority Signifier
During the game, the coach calls the shots, not the players.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Responsibility Implication

Suggests the person making decisions also bears the responsibility for the outcomes.

Illustration for Responsibility Implication
As project manager, you'll call the shots and handle any issues that arise.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Power Dynamics

Used to discuss who has more power or say in a group or situation.

Illustration for Power Dynamics
In their partnership, it's generally Jane who calls the shots.
LampPro Tip 1/3

Authority Signifier

Indicates who is in charge or has the power in a situation.

Illustration for Authority Signifier
During the game, the coach calls the shots, not the players.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Responsibility Implication

Suggests the person making decisions also bears the responsibility for the outcomes.

Illustration for Responsibility Implication
As project manager, you'll call the shots and handle any issues that arise.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Power Dynamics

Used to discuss who has more power or say in a group or situation.

Illustration for Power Dynamics
In their partnership, it's generally Jane who calls the shots.
Visual representation of the word "Call the shots/tune"

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