call for you

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "call for you" is correct and usable in written English.
You could use this phrase as a way to inform someone that someone else has asked for them or is requesting their presence. For example, "My boss just called for you in his office."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Calling ahead or having your hotel call for you can also help.

The New York Times - Style

"That's why I thought to call for you".

The New Yorker

Bill: Would you like me to call for you, Mom?

The New Yorker

(For example, "I have a call for you 4").

The New York Times - Tech

Is there a relative we can call for you?

The New York Times

"Every situation may call for you to do something different".

The New York Times - Sports

She can make a phone call for you".

The New York Times - Arts

"This is a wake-up call for you," Stearns said.

The New York Times - Sports

"I have a call for you on the other line".

The New York Times

"Are there relations we can call for you?" Again she shook her head.

The New Yorker

There, the rules call for you to add up the applicable deductions.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "call for you" to mean 'summon', ensure the context makes it clear that someone is being asked to come to a specific location or perform a specific task. For example, "The manager called for you in her office immediately."

Common error

Avoid using "call for you" when you simply mean to make a phone call on someone's behalf without their immediate presence being required. Instead, say "I'll make a phone call for you" if you want to help someone with calling.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "call for you" functions primarily as a verb phrase, often used to indicate a summons, a request for someone's presence, or a need for their attention. Ludwig shows many instances where this phrase is used in direct speech or reported speech to convey such a message.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Wiki

33%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

9%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "call for you" is a versatile verb phrase commonly used to indicate a summons, request, or need for someone's presence or attention. According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and appears frequently in diverse contexts, especially in News & Media and Wiki sources. While generally neutral in register, its meaning can shift based on the context of usage. Remember to ensure your usage aligns with the intended meaning: summoning someone, relaying a message or request. Ludwig's analysis confirms its widespread applicability and clear communication of intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

need you

A simple and direct expression of someone's need for the person.

ask for you

A more general and less direct way of saying someone has inquired about the person.

want you

A direct expression of desire for someone's presence or action.

request your presence

This phrase is more formal and emphasizes the act of asking someone to be present.

summon you

This implies a more authoritative or urgent request for someone's presence.

require your assistance

This is a formal way of indicating that someone's help is needed.

page you

This suggests using a paging system to notify someone.

desire your company

This is a more polite and formal way of asking for someone's presence.

seek you

This implies an active search or quest to find the person.

demand your attention

Emphasizes the urgency and importance of the request.

FAQs

How can I use "call for you" in a sentence?

You can use "call for you" to indicate that someone is requesting another person's presence or assistance. For example, "The doctor will call for you when it's your turn" or "My boss just called for you in his office".

What does "call for you" mean?

"Call for you" can mean to summon someone, to request their presence, or to need their attention. It can also mean to make a phone call on someone's behalf.

What can I say instead of "call for you"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "request your presence", "summon you", or "need you".

Is it correct to say "called for you" instead of "call for you"?

Yes, "called for you" is the past tense of "call for you" and is grammatically correct. For example, "He called for you earlier, but you were out".