call

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'call' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it as a noun (example: I received a call yesterday) or a verb (example: I called my best friend).

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

'What do you call a scouser in a suit?

The Guardian

"Mr Carmichael said at the time that the first he was aware of this matter was when he received a call from a journalist, but we now know that this is simply untrue.

The Guardian

Call him Nick.

The New York Times

"It's a wake-up call.

The New York Times - Arts

He told Channel 4 News: "I've told you the first I became aware of this, and this is already on the public record, was when I received a phone call on Friday afternoon from a journalist making me aware of it".

The Guardian

Other EU countries have responded to the call for help with two fixed-wing aircraft and three patrol vessels.

The Guardian

Northern Ireland secretary John Reid has until Saturday night to find a compromise between Sinn Fein and David Trimble's Ulster Unionists on decommissioning, police reform and demilitarisation, or again suspend the assembly (either indefinitely or for six weeks) or call fresh elections.

The Guardian

Rudd has not said when he will call the poll or whether he will stick with Julia Gillard's nominated election date of 14 September, but appears to have the confidence of the hung parliament.

The Guardian

To order a copy for £15.99, go to bookshop.theguardian.com or call 0330 333 6846.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The chancellor reinforced this message with a call for Britain and Germany to remain "united and determined" in reforming the EU and promoting competitiveness.

The Guardian

If you are in distress and would like assistance, call Lifeline on 13 11 14, BeyondBlue on 1300 224 636 or Mensline on 1300 789 978 for support and information.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "call" in a formal context, consider whether a more specific verb like "request", "summon", or "designate" would provide greater clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "call" when a more precise term is available. For example, instead of "call a meeting", specify "schedule a meeting" or "convene a meeting" to enhance clarity.

Linguistic Context

The word "call" functions primarily as a verb or a noun. As a verb, it signifies the action of contacting someone or something. As a noun, it denotes the act of calling or the sound produced, or can refer to a phone conversation. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The analysis of the word "call" reveals its versatility as both a verb and a noun, commonly used to describe communication, summoning, or naming. Its frequency is very common, with a neutral register adaptable to various contexts, primarily in News & Media. As Ludwig AI confirms, "call" adheres to standard grammar rules and its many examples confirm that it serves different purposes, the most important being to initiate contact or to identify something. When employing "call", ensure that context aligns with your intent and consider specific alternatives like "summon" or "name" for enhanced clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

make a phone call

Adds the action of starting a telephone conversation.

telephone

Emphasizes the act of contacting someone via phone.

get in touch

Emphasizes the act of establishing communication.

summon

Suggests a formal request or order for someone to come.

reach out

Focuses on making an effort to connect with someone.

name

Highlights the act of giving something a particular designation.

visit

Focuses on the act of going to see someone.

designate

Implies a formal assignment or appointment.

cry out

Indicates a loud vocalization, often expressing emotion.

label

Suggests assigning a descriptive term or category.

FAQs

How can I use the word "call" in a sentence?

The word "call" can be used as a verb, as in "I will "call" you later", or as a noun, as in "I received a "call" from my doctor".

What are some alternatives to the word "call"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "telephone", "summon", "name", or "visit".

What is the difference between "call" and "reach out"?

"Call" typically implies a phone conversation or a simple attempt to contact someone, while "reach out" suggests a more deliberate or proactive effort to connect or offer assistance.

Is it correct to use "call" as a noun or only as a verb?

"Call" can be correctly used as both a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to the act of calling, such as a "phone "call"", and as a verb, it describes the action of calling someone or something.