get a callback

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "get a callback" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when referring to receiving a return phone call, often in the context of job applications or inquiries. Example: "I hope to get a callback after my interview." Alternative expressions include "receive a return call" and "get a response."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

I couldn't get a callback.

The New York Times - Arts

When he didn't get a callback, he brought his baseball equipment home and figured he was done.

The New York Times - Sports

As summer ended, he was desperately firing off résumés and finding that he could not even get a callback.

The New York Times

So it is little wonder that people of non-Anglo backgrounds have to submit 64% more résumés to get a callback for an interview.

The Guardian

John Hockenberry, the writer and NBC correspondent who has contributed dozens of commentaries and essays for "The Infinite Mind," said: "Dr. Fred wouldn't pass an audition, wouldn't even get a callback, at any broadcast entity I've ever worked for.

The New York Times - Arts

Years later, seeking employment, she found confirmation of the self-conscious inkling that she'd had since grade school: her first name was a hindrance; she couldn't get a callback for a job.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

He got a callback.

The New York Times

I got a callback.' ".

The New York Times - Arts

But I never got a callback from any of them.

The New York Times

One way racial minorities may be trying to avoid discrimination is via a practice called "resume whitening" — concealing or downplaying racial cues on a job application to increase the chance of getting a callback for an interview.

Harvard Business Review

I sent my video in and within two days I got a callback.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing job applications, use "get a callback" to indicate that you received a second interview after the initial application.

Common error

Don't assume you will "get a callback" after an interview, even if it went well. Factors outside of your performance can influence the decision.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "get a callback" functions as a verbal phrase indicating the possibility or expectation of receiving a return communication, typically in response to an application, audition, or inquiry. As Ludwig AI explains, it is commonly used to express hope or anticipation for further engagement.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Wiki

11%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "get a callback" is a very common and grammatically sound expression used to describe the hope or expectation of receiving a return communication, typically in a professional context. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its usage spans across various domains, including news, media, and general online content. While generally considered neutral, more formal alternatives such as "receive a call back" may be preferred in certain contexts. Remember that while hoping to "get a callback" is natural, assuming one is guaranteed can lead to disappointment, as external factors can also play a role in the final decision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

receive a call back

Formal synonym; emphasizes the act of receiving the communication.

hear back

Informal; suggests a response to a previous communication.

get a reply

General; indicates receiving an answer or acknowledgement.

be contacted

General term; focuses on being reached out to without specifying the medium.

be given a call

Passive voice; emphasizes the action of someone calling.

obtain a response

Formal; highlights the act of obtaining an answer or feedback.

get contacted

Expresses the action of someone contacting you

have someone call

Requests someone to call you

receive communication

Emphasis the reception of a generic communication

be reached

Generic expression of reception of communication

FAQs

How to use "get a callback" in a sentence?

You can use "get a callback" in sentences like, "I hope to "get a callback" after submitting my resume" or "She was excited to "get a callback" for the audition".

What does it mean to "get a callback"?

To "get a callback" typically means to receive a second opportunity, such as a second interview for a job or another audition. It indicates that the initial impression was positive and warrants further consideration.

What can I say instead of "get a callback"?

You can use alternatives like "receive a call back", "hear back", or "be contacted" depending on the context.

Is "get a callback" formal or informal?

"Get a callback" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though more formal situations might benefit from alternatives like "receive a call back".