Meaning & Origin

“Call the shots” means to be the person in charge who makes key decisions — directing actions and setting priorities. The phrase likely draws on shooting or billiards, where the player “calls” the intended shot before taking it.

Pronunciation Guide

• call — rhymes with “ball.”
• shots — sounds like “shawts.”
• Natural rhythm: CALL the SHOTS.

Usage & Sentence Examples

Use it when someone has authority to make the final decisions.

• In this kitchen, the head chef calls the shots.
• The board calls the shots on executive hiring.
• At rehearsal, the director calls the shots.
• Let the medic call the shots during the emergency.
• Who’s calling the shots on budget approvals?
• Once the season starts, the coach calls the shots on the lineup.

Synonyms

be in charge · make the decisions · run the show · have the final say · call the tune (UK) · be the boss