In this lesson you will learn how to use the idiom 'call the shots'.

Calling a shot means to make a decision.

That's right. In other words, to “call a shot” is to decide what is to be done.

The person who calls the shots is the one who makes the most powerful decisions.

That's right, Cally. Someone who calls the shots is the one who is in charge and gives directions.

Yes, it means to be in the most powerful position to decide and influence a situation. Will you give me an example, Aaron?

Alright, here is one: It's Fred's project, so he will call the shots; he'll decide how to proceed. Should I give another example?

If you want to. I'm not the one calling the shots here!

Alright then, you give an example now.

Sure, here it goes: 'The teacher calls the shots, not the students'.

Great! Let's listen to some conversations now.

Will we reach our destination tomorrow?

If we walk all day, we may. But that's up to Freda. She's calling the shots.

I'd rather walk half a day and stop to rest.

Yeah! But you're not calling the shots.

Freda is calling the shots, but she's pretty fair.

Right! She listens to our opinions, and takes them into consideration.

Yes, I'm glad we followed the trail, and not the rocky beach.

Yeah. It's pretty hot today, I suggest we rest for a while.

It's up to Freda, though. She calls the shots.

Who is calling the shots on your team?

The squad captain will decide who starts.

But the captain isn't here yet.

You're next in seniority. I think you'll have to call the shots until he gets here. You must decide the starting line-up.

Okay, I'll make the decision.

I'm not the one calling the shots here!

The teacher calls the shots, not the students.

But that's up to Freda. She's calling the shots.

She calls the shots.

Who is calling the shots on your team?

I think you'll have to call the shots until he gets here.