a bold call

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a bold call" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a decision or action that is daring or audacious, often in a context where the outcome is uncertain. Example: "Choosing to invest in that startup was a bold call, but it paid off in the end."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

Still, it was a was a bold call to tinker so radically with his front line.

The Guardian - Sport

Liu Xiaobo was one of 300 democratic activists in China to author a bold call for constitutional reform last December.

The Guardian

Days earlier, his newspaper had used its front page to issue a bold call for his release, a campaign that was echoed by other media outlets.

The New York Times

Mr. Xi described the document as a bold call for economic renewal, social improvement and patriotic nation-building — all under the firm control of one-party rule.

The New York Times

But you know, that mirror mode still feels like a good idea, so today I'm going to make a bold call for it to be introduced.

Independent

Denier made a bold call and put his faith in the 16-year-old goalkeeper, who made his debut against Gent.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

If this all sounds slightly cultish to you— a sacred text, a big bold call out for test subjects, the promise of a happier life, the call for donations on top of fees that's because there are similarities here to the growth of other belief structures.

Vice

If this all sounds slightly cultish to you – a sacred text, a big bold call out for test subjects, the promise of a happier life, the call for donations on top of fees – that's because there are similarities here to the growth of other minorities belief structures.

Vice

Blessing's prediction of a victory didn't seem like a particularly bold call at the time since the team Real Salt Lake (1-2-1) fielded Saturday was far different from the one it used last season — or even last week.

Los Angeles Times

He points to the Louise Nicholas case, where reporter Phil Kitchin accused the upper echelons of NZ's police hierarchy of rape—"but that was an extremely bold call by the editor and more than a year's work".

Vice

The authorities have detained or questioned several signatories to an unusually bold call for political liberalisation issued by around 300 intellectuals on December 10th to mark the 60th anniversary of the universal declaration of human rights.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a bold call", ensure the context clearly establishes the nature and potential consequences of the call to emphasize its daring or courageous aspect. For instance, specify the risks involved or the challenges it aims to address.

Common error

Avoid using "a bold call" too frequently within a limited scope of writing, especially if the context doesn't consistently warrant the term's intensity. Overuse can diminish its impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a bold call" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where "bold" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "call". This structure typically identifies or describes a specific action or statement characterized by courage or audacity, as supported by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a bold call" is a common phrase used to describe a daring, courageous, or audacious action, decision, or appeal. According to Ludwig, its grammatical structure as a noun phrase emphasizes the specific nature of the act. It's frequently used in news and media, academic writing, and formal business settings to highlight significant and potentially impactful moments. The phrase's versatility and evocative nature make it a powerful tool for emphasizing the courageous or visionary aspects of the described action. As such, writers should use it deliberately to maximize its impact and credibility, and consider alternative phrases such as "a courageous appeal" or "a daring proposition" depending on the intended nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a courageous appeal

Emphasizes bravery in making the appeal, shifting focus from the call itself to the act of making it.

a daring proposition

Highlights the risk involved in the suggestion or proposal.

a brave decision

Focuses on the fortitude required to make the choice.

an audacious move

Suggests a level of boldness that might be seen as reckless.

a striking initiative

Emphasizes the impressiveness and novelty of the action.

a significant challenge

Implies that the call represents a major undertaking.

a firm demand

Conveys a sense of insistence and resolve.

a powerful request

Highlights the strength and impact of the entreaty.

a strong recommendation

Indicates a clear and forceful endorsement.

a spirited advocacy

Focuses on enthusiastic and passionate support.

FAQs

How can I use "a bold call" in a sentence?

Use "a bold call" to describe a daring or courageous action, decision, or appeal. For instance, "The CEO's decision to invest in renewable energy was "a bold call" that set the company apart."

What are some alternatives to saying "a bold call"?

You can use alternatives like "a daring proposition", "a courageous appeal", or "an audacious move", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a bold call"?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize the courageous or daring nature of an action, decision, or appeal, especially when it involves significant risk or challenges. Ensure the context warrants such a strong description.

What's the difference between "a bold call" and "a risky move"?

"A bold call" emphasizes courage and daring, while ""a risky move"" primarily highlights the potential for negative consequences. While both may overlap, "a bold call" can also imply vision and leadership, not just hazard.