called the roll

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "called the roll" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in the context of taking attendance, especially in a classroom or meeting setting. Example: "The teacher called the roll to ensure all students were present before starting the lesson."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

Their kitchen areas glide smoothly away to reveal beds or desks; a German prototype called the Roll It is a home in the shape of a tube that, as it rolls over, becomes a bedroom, study or kitchen.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Fitzgerald ignored his request and, five minutes later, called the roll.

The New York Times - Magazine

The chairman called the roll and tried toadd a little humor but they smiled bleakly.

The New Yorker

Baucus asked for the yeas and nays, and a clerk called the roll at a ragged pace.

The New Yorker

The perfect marching band shoe pitches the toe forward to foster the seamless, balletlike movement called the roll step.

The New York Times

Then they shortened it to Tito, so when the teacher called the roll and said Bert, I didn't know she meant me.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Or -some days - you can take a thing called the roll-off roll-on, so called because it can take cars, although you won't see many of those.

The New York Times - Travel

In addition to the new dashboard, Unroll.me also now offers an option that bundles your subscriptions into one daily email called the "roll-up".

TechCrunch

The Irish called the Rolls "Whippets", as they were quick-striking and relatively quiet.

BBC

The clerks of the two houses then called the rolls.

Wikipedia

The clerk was instructed to call the roll.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "called the roll" in contexts where a formal or official record of presence or voting is being taken.

Common error

Avoid using "called the roll" in informal situations where a simple headcount or quick check-in is sufficient. Using it in the wrong context could sound overly formal or out of place.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "called the roll" functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of reading out a list of names to confirm presence or record votes. This is evident in Ludwig's examples where it's used in contexts ranging from classrooms to political conventions.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "called the roll" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe the act of reading out a list of names to verify presence or record votes, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It commonly appears in news and media, as well as official records, indicating a neutral to formal register. While "called the roll" is generally correct, it's best suited for formal contexts and should be avoided in casual settings. Remember to consider alternative phrases like "took attendance" or "conducted a roll call" for varied expression. "Called the roll" can effectively convey formality and precision in appropriate scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

conducted a roll call

Replaces "called" with a more formal verb, emphasizing the procedure.

took attendance

Focuses on the action of verifying presence rather than the specific method.

recited the roster

Implies a formal and possibly ceremonial reading of the names.

read out the names

Highlights the act of speaking the names aloud.

verified the attendance list

Emphasizes the verification aspect of ensuring presence.

polled the members

Indicates a process of individual verification, often in a voting context.

announced the names

Focuses on the act of making the names known.

checked the register

Uses "register" to refer to the official list being checked.

summoned the names

A more dramatic or formal way of saying the names were called.

took a census

Refers to a complete count of a population, often more extensive than a simple roll call.

FAQs

What does it mean to say someone "called the roll"?

Saying someone "called the roll" means they announced a list of names, typically to verify presence or record votes, often in a formal or official setting such as a classroom or legislative body.

How can I use "called the roll" in a sentence?

You can use "called the roll" in a sentence like this: "The teacher "called the roll" to make sure all students were present." or "The chairman "called the roll" before the vote.".

What's a more informal way to say someone "called the roll"?

Informal alternatives to "called the roll" include "took attendance", "did a headcount", or "checked who was here".

Is "called the roll" only used for people?

Yes, "called the roll" is primarily used in contexts involving people, such as taking attendance or recording votes. It wouldn't typically be used for inanimate objects or abstract concepts.