Understanding idiomatic expressions like “call the shots” can be invaluable for anyone preparing for the IELTS exam. This phrase not only enriches your vocabulary but also enhances your ability to express complex ideas more naturally and accurately.

Definition and Pronunciation of “Call the Shots”

Meaning:

• Call the shots: To be in control of a situation, making all the important decisions.
  • Pronunciation: /ˈkɔːl ðə ʃɒts/
  • Type: Idiom, Verb phrase
  • Synonyms: Make decisions, Be in charge, Lead, Command, Dictate
  • Antonyms: Follow, Comply, Obey

Examples in Sentences:

1. In Business: “As the CEO, he calls the shots on all major company policies.”
2. In Sports: “During the game, the coach calls the shots from the sideline.”
3. In Personal Scenarios: “In their relationship, she clearly calls the shots.”
4. In Military: “The general is the one who calls the shots in a combat zone.”
5. In Politics: “It’s clear that the prime minister calls the shots in the cabinet.”

Significance in IELTS

The phrase “call the shots” frequently appears in contexts where leadership and decision-making are discussed. It is particularly useful in IELTS Speaking and Writing tasks where you need to discuss topics like business management, teamwork, or personal experiences. Its idiomatic nature can also help you achieve a higher band score for lexical resource.

Sample IELTS Task Analysis

Consider the following IELTS Speaking Part 3 question:

Question: “Do you think leaders are born or made?”

Sample Answer: “I believe leaders are made. While some people might have innate qualities that predispose them to leadership, it is the experiences and training that truly shape an individual into a competent leader. Those who call the shots in any field have often spent years honing their skills and understanding the intricacies of their domain.”

In this response, using “call the shots” demonstrates a solid grasp of idiomatic language, which can impress the examiner and potentially boost your score.

Related Words and Phrases:

• Lead (v.): “She was chosen to lead the project.”
• Command (v.): “The captain commands his team with authority.”
• Dictate (v.): “He likes to dictate terms in any negotiation.”
• Control (v.): “She controls the budget of the household.”

Expanding Your IELTS Vocabulary with Related Idioms and Phrases

Idioms Related to “Call the Shots”

1. Pull the strings: To control something or someone indirectly.
   • Example: “Even though he’s not the CEO, everyone knows he pulls the strings.”
2. Run the show: To be in charge of an event, organization, etc.
   • Example: “She’s the one who really runs the show at the office.”
3. Take the reins: To assume control or leadership.
   • Example: “After the manager resigned, John took the reins of the project.”
4. Hold the reins: To be in control of something.
   • Example: “He prefers to hold the reins in his own hands rather than delegate tasks.”
5. Be in the driver’s seat: To be in control of a situation or activity.
   • Example: “With the new promotion, she is now in the driver’s seat.”
6. At the helm: In charge, especially of a ship or leadership.
   • Example: “With her at the helm, the company went through a remarkable transformation.”
7. Rule the roost: To be the person who makes all the decisions in a situation.
   • Example: “In their team, it’s clearly Sarah who rules the roost.”
8. Have the final say: To have the authority to make the final decision.
   • Example: “Though we all voiced our opinions, it was the manager who had the final say.”
9. Be the boss: To be in charge of a job or organization.
   • Example: “After the merger, she became the boss of the new combined entity.”

Practical Examples and Integration

Writing Task 2 Example

Question: “Some people think that managers are responsible for the success of an organization, while others believe that it is the employees who really make the difference. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”

Sample Paragraph:
“Managers are often seen as the ones who call the shots and therefore hold the key to an organization’s success. Their ability to make critical decisions, motivate staff, and allocate resources efficiently can significantly impact the overall performance of the company. However, one cannot overlook the contributions of employees. Without their dedication and hard work, even the most well-laid plans from management would fail to materialize.”

Speaking Part 2 Example

Cue Card: “Describe a person who has positively influenced you.”

Sample Answer:
“The individual who has greatly influenced me is my former boss at my previous job. She was a remarkable leader who truly knew how to call the shots. Her decisions were always well-informed and balanced, leading our team to numerous successes. She taught me the importance of confidence and clarity in leadership, which I strive to emulate in my own career.”

Person calling the shots in a business meeting

Conclusion

Incorporating idiomatic phrases like “call the shots” into your IELTS preparation can greatly enhance your lexical resource score by showcasing your ability to use sophisticated and varied language. Make sure to practice these phrases in both your writing and speaking tasks to become more comfortable and natural in their usage.

For further practical examples and tips on enhancing your IELTS skills, you can explore related topics such as “The Ball is in Your Court” and “How to Improve IELTS Band 8 Speaking“.