call the shots
idiom

- to be in the position of being able to make the decisions which will influence a situation

The Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary

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ORIGIN

Etymologists disagree on the exact origin of the expression "call the shots." They do agree that it likely stems from one of two sources:

(1) Target shooting in the American Wild West. Back then, accurately shooting a gun was a highly valued skill. People frequently practiced and held target shooting competitions. The shooters would announce, or call, the exact spot on a target before shooting, meaning they "called the shot."

(2) The game of billiards. In one version of the game, the players announce each shot beforehand, such as "six-ball in the side pocket" or "eight-ball in the corner pocket." Like in target shooting, this is referred to as "calling the shot."

Here are some other common uses of "shot":

- a big shot (American & Australian informal) = an important or powerful person in a group or organization (Mr Jones is a big shot in the business world)

- a long shot = something that will probably not succeed but is worth trying (It's a long shot but I could call Jim, he might know the answer)

- a shot in the arm  (informal) = if something gives you a shot in the arm, it gives you encouragement or energy (The opening of a centre a shot in the arm for the community).

- give it a shot (informal) = to attempt to do something (I've never danced salsa before but I'll give it a shot)

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SYNONYMS

call the tune, run the show, hold the reins, be in the saddle, be in the driver's seat

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Practice OWAD in a conversation today:

"If in doubt, let the most experienced team member CALL THE SHOTS."