call out for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "call out for" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in the sense of "demand", as in: The mayor's proposal to reduce taxes called out for a strong response from the public.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

50 human-written examples

We call out for the love of our black body.

Vice

They call out for his mother.

The Guardian - Music

Spots for Super Bowls call out for marching bands.

The New York Times

"Schlappi models call out for attention," he said.

The New York Times

They have to call out for a repair".

The New York Times

Other pressing questions also call out for discussion.

Harvard Business Review

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

10 human-written examples

For butterfly lovers we already have another photo-call out for your butterfly snaps.

The Guardian

Other suggestions came in on our Diner's Journal call-out for tips.

The New York Times

"The biggest call-out for gas fitters in winter is when the condensation pipe freezes," he says.

Independent

"That's why the call-out for diverse experiences is so important in balancing the stories told on stage".

Independent

The podcast network Radiotopia picked their project as one of 10 semifinalists in a national call-out for new ideas.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the formality of your context. While versatile, "call out for" might be less appropriate in highly formal or technical writing compared to more direct synonyms like "require" or "necessitate".

Common error

Avoid using "call out for" repeatedly in formal documents. Vary your language with synonyms like "require", "demand", or "request" to maintain a professional tone and avoid sounding repetitive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "call out for" functions as a phrasal verb. It generally expresses a need, request, or demand directed towards a specific audience or in response to a pressing situation. Ludwig confirms its usability across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "call out for" is a versatile phrasal verb used to express a need, request, or demand. Ludwig confirms it's grammatically sound and frequently used, particularly in news, wiki, and business contexts. When writing, it's advisable to consider the formality of your context and choose synonyms accordingly to prevent repetition. The phrase is generally neutral in tone, but it can convey a sense of urgency or necessity. Alternative phrases like "appeal for" or "request" can provide variety and maintain a professional tone in formal documents.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cry out for

Emphasizes a strong and emotional need.

appeal for

Suggests a formal or urgent request.

seek help

Emphasizes the act of looking for assistance.

request assistance

Focuses specifically on asking for help.

put out a call for

More formal way to announce/request.

demand attention

Highlights the need to be noticed or considered.

require

A more formal way of expressing a need.

solicit

Implies actively seeking something from others.

necessitate

Indicates that something is essential or unavoidable.

seek

Emphasizes actively searching and hoping to find something.

FAQs

How to use "call out for" in a sentence?

You can use "call out for" to indicate a need or request, as in, "The organization "called out for" volunteers" or "The situation "cries out for" immediate action.

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

You can use alternatives like "appeal for", "request", or "demand" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "call out for" or "call for"?

Both "call out for" and "call for" are correct, but "call out for" emphasizes a specific need or request directed towards an audience. "Call for" is more general, indicating a need or suggestion.

What's the difference between "call out for" and "cry out for"?

"Call out for" is a general request or demand. "Cry out for" indicates a strong, often emotional, need or demand.