In the Driver's Seat: Meaning, History, and Usage in English

Meaning: Being in control or having the authority to make decisions. When someone is in the driver's seat, they are the ones steering the direction of a situation or project.

Origin: The idiom 'In the driver's seat' originates from the early 20th century when automobiles became more prevalent. The driver, having control over the vehicle, became a metaphor for someone who has control over a situation or project. This metaphor extended beyond driving to signify anyone who is in a position of authority or control.

Examples

As the new project manager, Sarah is now in the driver's seat and has the final say on all major decisions.
The CEO's strategic vision puts him firmly in the driver's seat of the company's future.
With her extensive experience, Jessica found herself in the driver's seat during the negotiation process.
Winning the election has placed the senator in the driver's seat to implement her policies.
After years of being an assistant, Mark is excited to finally be in the driver's seat of his own team.
The merger put the larger corporation in the driver's seat, dictating the terms of the agreement.
Despite initial doubts, John's innovative ideas quickly put him in the driver's seat at the tech startup.
With the new funding secured, the entrepreneur is now in the driver's seat to expand her business globally.
Taking the lead on the project, Tom felt the pressure of being in the driver's seat but welcomed the challenge.
Her decisive actions during the crisis proved she was more than capable of being in the driver's seat.