mastermind · orchestrated · dominated · steered · managed · ringmaster · conductor · helm · reins · charge · authority · spotlight · stage · production · captain · chief · kingpin · puppet master
IDEA.org / Words / ran the show
Related — led (Guided or commanded); commanded (Gave authoritative instructions); controlled (Kept within limits); boss · director · mastermind · orchestrated · dominated · steered · managed · ringmaster · conductor · helm
CONTROL AND AUTHORITYran the show ≠ took orders Followed another's instructions; took a back seat
COMPETENCE IN LEADERSHIPran the show ≠ lost control Failed to maintain composure; dropped the ball
activity and engagementran the show ≠ stood by Supported or awaited; coasted · went along for the ride
Word data: Linguabase (CC0) · www.idea.org/words/ran_the_show