in the driver's seat
Meaning
In control of a situation; having the power to decide what happens next.
Origin
From driving: the person in the driver’s seat controls the vehicle’s direction and speed, so the phrase became a metaphor for being in charge or in a position of control.
Notes
Common in business and everyday speech. Usually implies active control/decision-making, not necessarily domination.
Examples
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After the merger, our team was finally in the driver's seat and could set the strategy.
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Once you accept the job offer, you'll be in the driver's seat when it comes to negotiating your start date.
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With a big lead in the polls, the incumbent is in the driver's seat going into the election.
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Put your savings on automatic transfers so you're in the driver's seat instead of spending whatever is left.
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Now that the kids are asleep, you're in the driver's seat—pick the movie.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Usually used with a form of “be” (e.g., is/was/will be) or verbs like “put/keep” someone in the driver’s seat. Often with “the” in AmE; “driver’s seat” is fixed.
Synonyms
- in control
- in charge
- calling the shots
- at the helm
- running the show
Antonyms
- on the sidelines
- out of control
- at someone else's mercy