Call the tune: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Call the tune” mean?

"Call the tune" means to be in control or in charge of a situation.

What context can I use the in?

Example

He's the boss, so he gets to call the tune.

Example

As the team captain, she has the authority to call the tune.

Example

The CEO has the final say and gets to call the tune in the company

Is “Call the tune” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Call the tune” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Call the tune” effectively in context?

You can use "Call the Tune" to describe someone who is in control or in charge of a situation. It emphasizes their authority and decision-making power. For example, if someone is the leader of a group or organization, you might say, 'As the CEO, he gets to call the tune and make all the important decisions.'

• 1. Work

  He's the boss, so he gets to call the tune and set the direction for the company.

• 2. Sports

  As the team captain, she has the authority to call the tune and make strategic decisions during the game.

• 3. Business

  The CEO has the final say and gets to call the tune in the company.

Similar phrases to “Call the tune”:

Be in control

To have authority or power over a situation

Example

She likes to be in control and make all the decisions.

Hold the reins

To be in charge or have control over something

Example

He holds the reins of the company and makes all the important decisions.

Wear the pants

To be the one in control or making decisions in a relationship or situation

Example

She wears the pants in their marriage and makes all the major decisions.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Call the tune” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Call the Tune" is unknown.

Is “Call the tune” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Call the Tune" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. It is often used to describe someone who has the power to make decisions and set the direction in a particular context.

What tone does “Call the tune” have?

"Call the Tune" conveys a tone of authority and control. It implies that the person being described has the ability to dictate how things should be done and make important decisions.

Can “Call the tune” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Call the Tune" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that can be used in various contexts, such as work, sports, or business. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations like meetings or presentations.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He's the boss, so he gets to call the tune.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time for him to "call the tune"!' to imply someone taking charge.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• be in charge
• have the upper hand
• have the final say
• be the decision-maker
• hold the power

Antonyms

• follow someone else's lead
• take orders
• obey instructions
• lose control
• give up control