a simple call

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a simple call" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a straightforward or uncomplicated phone call or request. Example: "I just need to make a simple call to confirm our meeting time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

"It wasn't a simple call for them".

The New York Times

One by one, the preachers alighted on a simple call to common ground and peaceful understanding.

The Guardian

Most likely, Jesus' message was more radical than a simple call for repentance, a proposition with which everyone would have agreed.

Encyclopedia Britannica

— It was a simple call to put out a car fire, the sort of routine job that firefighters tackle all the time.

The New York Times

"It's great to have a leader willing to ignore those who say he cannot take a simple call from another democratically elected leader," Yates tweeted.

The Guardian

"Neither a simple call for more Europe nor a phase of mere reflection can be an adequate answer," Ayrault and Steinmeier wrote in their paper.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

Yes, Ms. Lavin takes time in the final number to reprise the characters and images from the songs performed earlier in the evening, but it's a simple call-back technique basic to any standup comedian's set; there is no coherent vision or message.

The New York Times

Trottr works from any phone and is a simple call-in or upload system.

TechCrunch

One of the most beloved music games of all time is Masaya Matsuura's 1997 PlayStation title PaRappa the Rapper, a simple call-and-response game featuring the eponymous cartoon dog overcoming a series of blatantly nutty circumstances through the power of rap music in the hopes of winning the heart of his love interest, Sunny Funny.

Vice

Later, clarity dawns, and someone else, often David himself, makes a simpler call: "Fuck you".

The New Yorker

Actors can be called though a simple API call via any software.

Journal of Cloud Computing

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a simple call", ensure the context clarifies what makes the call 'simple'—is it the content, the process, or the expected outcome?

Common error

Avoid using "a simple call" when the task involves multiple steps, requires specialized knowledge, or involves significant negotiation. Otherwise, you risk creating false expectations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a simple call" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. As Ludwig AI suggests, it generally describes a phone call that is easy or uncomplicated. For example, "It was a simple call to put out a car fire."

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

12%

Science

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a simple call" is a noun phrase used to describe an easy and uncomplicated phone call. As Ludwig AI validates, it is grammatically correct and fairly common, particularly in news and media contexts. The phrase serves to emphasize the ease of communication and is generally neutral in register. When using this phrase, be sure the context accurately reflects the simplicity being conveyed to avoid misleading the audience. Alternative phrases include "an easy phone call" or "a quick call", depending on the nuance you want to express.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an easy phone call

Replaces 'simple' with 'easy', emphasizing the lack of difficulty in making the call.

a straightforward call

Substitutes 'simple' with 'straightforward', highlighting the directness of the communication.

a basic call

Uses 'basic' instead of 'simple', focusing on the fundamental nature of the call.

an uncomplicated call

Replaces 'simple' with 'uncomplicated', stressing the absence of complexity.

a quick phone call

Emphasizes the brevity of the call rather than its simplicity.

a brief call

Similar to 'quick phone call', this highlights the short duration of the communication.

a routine call

Implies the call is part of a regular process or procedure.

a standard call

Suggests the call follows established norms or practices.

a direct line

Focuses on the availability to make a direct communication with someone.

a mere phone call

Emphasizes how easy or insignificant the action of calling is.

FAQs

What does "a simple call" mean?

The phrase "a simple call" refers to a phone call that is easy, quick, and requires minimal effort or complexity. It suggests that the call involves a straightforward matter that can be resolved without difficulty.

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

You can use "a simple call" to describe an action that resolves something quickly, such as: "A simple call to customer service fixed the issue."

What are some alternatives to "a simple call"?

Alternatives to "a simple call" include phrases like "an easy phone call", "a quick call", or "a straightforward call". These options can provide variety while maintaining a similar meaning.

Is it always appropriate to describe a task as "a simple call"?

No, it's only appropriate if the phone call is genuinely uncomplicated and easy to execute. Using the phrase when the task involves complex issues can mislead the audience. Always match the description to the reality of the task.