calling your boss

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "calling your boss" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the action of making a phone call to your superior at work. Example: "I will be calling your boss to discuss the project updates."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

That's ridiculous.' So you were constantly put in the position of either backing down or calling your boss a liar".

The New Yorker

So rather than simply accepting "the package," you should consider calling your boss's bluff instead and asking to renegotiate the terms of your employment.

Huffington Post

Worked a whole workday without calling your boss a jerk?

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

"I said, now you can call your boss and tell him if it's any good," Mr. Green said.

The New York Times

So when you wander into a bank from this week and ask to borrow a couple of hundred thousand quid to buy an identikit shoebox, they won't just ask you how much you earn and then call your boss to check – oh no.

The Guardian - Opinion

"I think it's great because if there's an emergency, you want to be able to get in touch with someone, or call your boss if you're running late," said Susan Cohen, 54, a buyer for a women's clothing company who lives on the Upper East Side and regularly takes the No. 6 train on the Lexington line.

The New York Times

Messages to me that were labeled "Hi" turned out to be a get-rich-quick scheme, "How's it going" was for pornography, "Re: the information you requested" advertised an herbal alternative to Viagra, and "Fire the creep you call your boss" was yet another money-making adventure.

The New York Times

If you're expecting a prospective employer to call your boss or one of your peers, make sure he or she knows something about the job you are being considered for.

Science Magazine

You wouldn't want your mom or partner to call your boss, right?

Huffington Post

Get that worked out and then call your boss to explain the situation.

Huffington Post

Firstly, unlike in U.S. organizations, which are significantly "flatter," "you have to call your boss "laoshi" (teacher), no matter where you come from," Aily explained.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When "calling your boss", be prepared with a clear agenda to respect their time and ensure an efficient conversation.

Common error

Before "calling your boss", consider whether an email or message might be more appropriate, especially for non-urgent matters or when detailed information needs to be conveyed. A written message allows your boss to respond at their convenience and provides a record of the communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "calling your boss" functions as a gerund phrase, often used as a noun, describing the action of contacting one's supervisor. Ludwig provides examples showing its usage in various contexts, such as explaining emergencies or reporting lateness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Wiki

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "calling your boss" is a grammatically sound and commonly understood way to describe contacting one's supervisor. Ludwig's analysis confirms its correctness and usability in various contexts, primarily in news and media, and wiki environments. While "calling your boss" is generally acceptable, it is essential to consider the context and urgency of the matter before choosing this method of communication, as email or messaging may sometimes be more appropriate. Being prepared with a clear agenda is also crucial for efficient communication. Remember to be mindful of the formality level when selecting the right words and consider alternatives such as contacting your supervisor.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

contacting your supervisor

This alternative is a more formal and generic way to describe reaching out to your boss.

reaching out to your manager

Similar to 'contacting your supervisor', this option uses 'manager' instead of 'boss', adding a touch of professionalism.

phoning your superior

This alternative emphasizes the act of calling and uses a more formal term, 'superior', for boss.

giving your boss a call

This is a more casual and conversational version of the original phrase.

getting in touch with your boss

This phrase broadens the method of contact beyond just phone calls.

speaking with your boss

This alternative focuses on the conversation aspect rather than the method of contact.

informing your boss by phone

This alternative emphasizes the action of informing your boss specifically via telephone.

notifying your employer via call

This is a very formal way of saying to call your boss, it's more indirect.

telephoning the head of department

Replaces 'boss' with a more descriptive and formal title, suitable for highly structured environments.

connecting with the team lead

Focuses on establishing a connection, useful in contexts emphasizing collaboration.

FAQs

What is a more formal way to say "calling your boss"?

You can use phrases such as "contacting your supervisor" or "reaching out to your manager" for a more professional tone.

When is it appropriate to consider "calling your boss" instead of sending an email?

Consider calling for urgent matters, when a quick response is needed, or when discussing sensitive or complex topics that require a more personal conversation.

Are there any potential downsides to "calling your boss"?

Calling can be disruptive and may catch your boss at an inconvenient time. It's essential to consider their availability and the urgency of the matter before calling. An alternative could be "sending an email".

What should I do to prepare before "calling your boss"?

Before calling, gather all necessary information, prepare a clear agenda, and anticipate potential questions. This ensures an efficient and productive conversation.