wear the trousers

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The phrase "wear the trousers" is an idiomatic expression in English that means to be the person who is in charge or has the authority in a relationship or situation, especially in a household. It often implies that one person makes the important decisions and has control.

Usage Instructions:

• This phrase is usually used in informal conversations.
• It can refer to any kind of relationship, but it is often used when talking about couples or families.
• It is often used to highlight who is the decision-maker.

Example:

• In a conversation, you might say: "In their relationship, she definitely wears the trousers. He always goes along with her plans."

Advanced Usage:

• In more complex discussions, you might say: "The manager wears the trousers in the office; her decisions are final, and everyone respects that."

Word Variants:

• There are no direct variants of this phrase, but you can use related phrases like "call the shots" or "wear the pants," which have the same meaning.

Different Meanings:

• The phrase "wear the trousers" is primarily used in a figurative sense to discuss authority. It does not have a literal meaning related to clothing.

Synonyms:

• Call the shots: To be in control or make decisions.
• Be in charge: To have the responsibility for something.
• Take the lead: To be the one guiding or directing.

Related Idioms:

• Wear the pants: This is another expression that has the same meaning as "wear the trousers."
• The boss: This term refers to someone who is in control or has authority.

Phrasal Verbs:

• There aren't specific phrasal verbs that directly replace "wear the trousers," but you can use phrases like "take charge of" or "take control of" to convey similar meanings.

Summary:

"Wear the trousers" is a colloquial expression that means to be the one in charge or making decisions in a relationship or situation.

Academic

Verb

1. exercise authority or be in charge
   • Who is calling the shots in this house?

Synonyms

• call the shots
• call the tune