[Idiom] WEAR THE TROUSERS. - Phrases That Mean Being in Charge or Control

Be in control.

To 'wear the trousers' means to be the dominant or controlling person in a relationship or household. This idiom originates from the times when trousers were typically worn by men, who were traditionally seen as the heads of households. It's often used in the context of discussing who makes decisions in a relationship or family.

Example Sentences

1. In their relationship, she definitely wears the trousers.

   In their relationship, she definitely makes the decisions.

2. When it comes to household decisions, he wears the trousers.

   When it comes to household decisions, he makes the decisions.

3. In that office, it was clear who wore the trousers in the team.

   In that office, it was clear who made the decisions.