I might call

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I might call" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a possibility or intention to make a phone call in the future. Example: "If I have time later, I might call you to discuss the project further."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I might call Chrissie.

The New York Times

I'm thinking I might call the novel "Stella's Honor".

The New Yorker

I might call my autobiography My Dad Could Have Shaken Hands with Wyatt Earp.

Independent

As Press acknowledges, what you might call fanaticism I might call justice.

The New York Times - Books

So I might call [Giants announcer] Jon Miller or a reporter out there.

The New York Times

If and when the mice reappear, I might call in the pros.

The New York Times

I've worked with all those people so I might call up some favours.

The Guardian

"I might call my dad and say, 'What's going on with the Kurds?' " she said.

The New York Times

Were you never interested in what I might call the historical background to that scene?

The New Yorker

Therefore the work ranged from what I might call pure science to the social aspects of aeronautics.

Yale University

As we left, I gave her a copy of my book and said I might call her.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I might call" to express a tentative plan or possibility. It suggests the action is under consideration but not definite. For example: "If I finish early, "I might call" you later."

Common error

Avoid using "I might call" when you intend to convey a firm commitment to call. "Might" suggests uncertainty, while "will" indicates a definite plan. If you are certain, use "I will call" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I might call" functions as a modal verb phrase, expressing a tentative future action. It indicates the speaker's consideration or possibility of making a phone call, without a firm commitment. Ludwig provides numerous examples of its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Academia

13%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I might call" is a grammatically sound and versatile phrase used to express the speaker's intention to possibly make a call in the future. According to Ludwig, it's commonly used in news, academic, and scientific contexts, indicating its broad applicability. Alternatives like "I may call" offer similar meanings with slight variations in formality. When using this phrase, remember it suggests uncertainty and should not be used when a firm commitment is intended. Mastering the nuances of "I might call" enhances clarity and precision in communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I may call

Replaces "might" with "may", indicating a similar degree of possibility but with a slightly more formal tone.

I could call

Substitutes "might" with "could", suggesting a conditional possibility depending on circumstances.

I am thinking of calling

Expresses a more deliberate consideration of calling someone.

I am considering calling

Similar to 'thinking of calling' but emphasizes a more thoughtful evaluation of the action.

I'm inclined to call

Indicates a predisposition or leaning towards making a call.

I'm tempted to call

Suggests a desire to call, possibly against better judgment or after some hesitation.

I'd be inclined to call

Expresses the inclination in a conditional format, softening the statement.

I'd consider calling

Expresses a willingness to consider the possibility of making the call.

I intend to call

Suggests a stronger intention compared to "might call".

Perhaps I'll call

Adds a touch of uncertainty to the possibility of calling.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to use "I might call"?

Use "I might call" to express a possibility or tentative plan to make a phone call in the future. It suggests the action is under consideration, but not a definite commitment. For example, "I might call you later if I have time".

What's the difference between "I might call" and "I will call"?

"I might call" expresses uncertainty and possibility, while "I will call" indicates a definite intention and commitment to make the call.

What can I say instead of "I might call" to sound more formal?

To sound more formal, you can use phrases like "I may call" or "I shall call", although the latter is less common in modern English.

Is it correct to say "I may call" instead of "I might call"?

Yes, "I may call" is a correct and suitable alternative to "I might call". Both convey a similar level of possibility, although "may" can sometimes sound slightly more formal.