show somebody who's boss

show (one) who's boss

To demonstrate authority or dominance over one so that it is clearly recognized, especially by means of defeat or some form of subjugation. You can't keep letting your employees walk all over you like that. You need to show them who's boss. You saw what their players said about us on Twitter. Let's go out there and show them who's boss in this conference.

See also: boss, show

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

show somebody who’s ˈboss

make it clear to somebody that you have more power and authority than they have: I think it’s time we showed these people who’s boss, don’t you?

See also: boss, show, somebody

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017