call in

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "call in" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use the phrase to refer to making a telephone call, as in: "I called in to the office to check on my status." It can also be used to refer to checking in or reporting to a certain place, as in: "I'll need to call in to the doctor's office before my appointment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

She had listeners call in and vote.

Los Angeles Times

Call in the attorneys?

The New Yorker

Samuel's call in the night.

The New Yorker

I call in mortar fire.

The New Yorker

"I can call in sick".

The New Yorker

« Call in the Economists!

University of California, Berkeley

Call in sick.

The Washington Post

Call in the ladybirds.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Call in the consultants.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Instead, use the "call-in" method.

WikiHow

Find out about call-in radio shows and call-in.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When you need to report an absence from work or school, use "call in sick" to clearly communicate the reason for your absence.

Common error

Be careful not to confuse "call in" with similar phrases like "call on" (to visit someone) or "call out" (to challenge or criticize someone). Using the wrong preposition can change the meaning entirely.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "call in" primarily functions as a verb, indicating an action. It encompasses various meanings, including making a phone call, reporting one's status, or summoning someone for assistance. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is widely used and accepted.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

17%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Science

8%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "call in" is a versatile phrasal verb with several meanings, including making a phone call, reporting a status, or summoning assistance. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage. It is most commonly found in news and media, and wiki contexts, and its register is generally neutral. When using "call in", be mindful of the context to ensure the intended meaning is clear, and avoid confusion with similar phrases like "call on" or "call out". Understanding these nuances will allow you to use the phrase effectively in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

make a phone call

This alternative is a more explicit and descriptive way of expressing the action of calling.

telephone

This alternative is a single verb that indicates the action of making a phone call, simplifying the phrasal verb.

phone

A simpler way of suggesting the action of making a phone call.

check in

This alternative emphasizes the act of reporting one's presence or status, especially in a workplace or formal setting.

contact

This alternative is a broader term referring to making communication without the implications of a phone call.

summon

This alternative focuses on the action of requesting someone's presence or assistance, removing the communication aspect.

report

This alternative focuses on conveying information or status updates, omitting the initial act of contacting someone.

request assistance

This alternative is more formal, emphasizing the act of seeking help.

withdraw

This alternative refers to removing something from circulation or sale, differing from the communication sense.

recall

This alternative suggests bringing something back, specifically in a formal or official context.

FAQs

How to use "call in" in a sentence?

You can use "call in" to mean making a phone call, as in "I need to "make a phone call" to the bank tomorrow". It can also mean to report something, for example, "Did you "check in" your hours for last week?"

What can I say instead of "call in" when reporting an absence?

When reporting an absence, you can use alternatives like "call in sick", "report sick", or "take a sick day depending on the context.

Which is correct, "call in" or "call into"?

Both "call in" and "call into" can be correct depending on the context. "Call in" is generally used to mean to make a phone call or report something. "Call into" is used to mean to visit briefly, as in "I'll "pop into" the store on my way home".

What's the difference between "call in" and "summon"?

"Call in" usually implies a communication via telephone or reporting a status. "Summon" means to order someone to come to a place or to be present.