bugle call

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bugle call" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a signal or announcement, often associated with military or ceremonial contexts. Example: "The bugle call echoed across the field, signaling the start of the parade."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The Nighthawks started their set: "Bugle Call Rag".

The New Yorker

"Taps" was first sounded as a lights-out bugle call.

The New York Times

All outdoor activity on a military base stops when this bugle call sounds.

The Washington Post

This was a bugle call to beckon home the folk who strayed away to Ukip.

The Guardian - Opinion

On this Veterans Day, they praised those who answered the bugle call in wartime.

The New York Times

It even warns you with an electronic "Charge!" bugle call when it's about to start mowing.

The New York Times - Tech

Suddenly there was a roar that became a bugle call for the charge.

The Guardian - Sport

If debut collections are meant to announce the arrival of talented new writers, "Battleborn" is a full-throated bugle call.

The New York Times - Books

The bugle call was "Retreat," which signifies the lowering of the American flag on a military installation.

The Washington Post

At around 2 00 am on August 5, 1944, a Japanese bugle call signalled the start of the breakout.

Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Comment on the bugler at Mitchell Field having been replaced by a set of bugle-call phonograph records and a loudspeaker.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "bugle call" in writing, ensure the context is clear, as it often carries military or ceremonial connotations. If the intention is to describe a general signal, consider alternatives like "trumpet signal" or "musical signal".

Common error

Avoid using "bugle call" to describe any loud sound or announcement. The phrase specifically refers to a signal produced by a bugle, typically within a military or formal context. Using it loosely can dilute its meaning and confuse the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bugle call" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It refers to a specific type of musical signal, typically associated with military or ceremonial procedures. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Encyclopedias

11%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "bugle call" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase, typically referring to a musical signal associated with military or ceremonial contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and appropriate usage. Predominantly found in news and media, encyclopedias, and academic sources, the phrase carries a neutral to formal register. While synonyms like "trumpet signal" or "military fanfare" exist, "bugle call" specifically evokes a sense of tradition and formality. To use it effectively, ensure the context aligns with its military or ceremonial connotations, avoiding overgeneralization to any loud sound. Consider alternatives if a more generic signal is intended.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

trumpet signal

Replaces "bugle" with "trumpet", emphasizing the instrument producing the call.

sound of the bugle

Focuses on the auditory aspect of the call.

signal sounded by a bugle

Rephrases the term to describe the sound's origin more explicitly.

military fanfare

Substitutes the specific call with a more general term for a military musical signal.

ceremonial call

Highlights the function of the call in ceremonies.

reveille

Specifically refers to the morning bugle call.

taps

Specifically refers to the bugle call played at military funerals and ceremonies.

call to arms

Emphasizes the call's function as a summons, often military.

musical signal

Replaces the military aspect of "bugle call" with emphasis on the more general sound.

rallying cry

Replaces the military meaning of "bugle call" and uses it as a signal of support.

FAQs

How is "bugle call" typically used in a sentence?

The phrase "bugle call" is often used to describe a signal, summons, or announcement, particularly in military or ceremonial contexts. For instance, "The bugle call signaled the start of the ceremony."

What are some alternatives to using "bugle call"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "trumpet signal", "military fanfare", or "ceremonial call". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "bugle call" formal or informal?

The phrase "bugle call" carries a slightly formal tone due to its association with military and ceremonial settings. It is generally appropriate for neutral or formal contexts but might sound out of place in very informal conversation.

What's the significance of a "bugle call" in military contexts?

In military contexts, a "bugle call" serves as a clear and distinct signal for various activities, such as reveille (wake-up), retreat (lowering of the flag), or "taps" (lights out or a funeral tribute). These calls are deeply ingrained in military tradition.