leave a message

USAGE SUMMARY

'leave a message' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it whenever you would like someone to leave a message for you, such as when you are not available to answer a phone call. For example: "If I am not available to answer the phone, please leave a message and I will get back to you as soon as I can."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

And $48 just to leave a message.

The New York Times

The caller did not leave a message.

The New York Times

Please do not leave a message.

The New York Times

Phone [phone] and leave a message.

The New Yorker

He won't leave a message.

The New York Times - Sports

If I'm not there, leave a message.

The New York Times

Please leave a message after the beep".

The Guardian

"I can't even leave a message".

The New York Times

I call the 800 number and leave a message.

The New York Times

Anyone who calls me must leave a message.

The New York Times

Callers have only 28 seconds to leave a message.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When leaving a message, be concise and clear about your purpose. State your name and contact information at the beginning and end of the message.

Common error

Avoid leaving a message without stating your name, number or the reason for your call. This makes it difficult for the recipient to understand and respond effectively.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "leave a message" functions as an imperative, instructing someone to deposit a communication for later retrieval. Ludwig's examples confirm its common usage in contexts where direct contact is not immediately possible.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Wiki

19%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

8%

Social Media

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "leave a message" is a common and grammatically correct imperative, used to request that someone provide information when direct contact isn't possible. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely used across various contexts, including news, media, and science. While generally neutral to informal in register, it's acceptable in professional settings. If you are looking for alternatives, consider "record a voicemail", "submit a communication", or "drop a line" depending on the context. It is important to be clear and concise when you "leave a message" so that the recipient can understand it and respond effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

record a voicemail

Focuses on the act of recording the message rather than the intention to leave it.

leave contact information

Specifies that the purpose is to allow someone to get back in touch.

submit a communication

A more formal way of saying leave a message, implying a structured means of communication.

drop a line

An informal and idiomatic way to suggest leaving a message, often used in casual contexts.

send a communication

A broader term that can include various methods of sending information.

send word

Implies conveying information, which may or may not be through a direct message.

impart information

Focuses on the act of giving information, abstracting away from the mechanism.

post a note

Alternative that is not specific to digital communications.

make contact

Focuses on getting in touch, leaving a message is just one of many strategies.

provide feedback

Specifically relates to offering input, which can be left as a message.

FAQs

How can I politely ask someone to "leave a message"?

You can say "Please "leave a message" after the beep" or "I'm currently unavailable, but please "leave a message" and I will return your call as soon as possible".

What's a more formal way to say "leave a message"?

In a formal context, you might say "Please "record a voicemail"" or "Kindly provide your contact details and a brief explanation of your inquiry".

When is it not appropriate to "leave a message"?

If the matter is extremely urgent or time-sensitive, it might be better to try contacting the person through multiple channels or seeking immediate assistance elsewhere. If something is time sensitive, don't "leave a message".

What should I include when I "leave a message"?

Always include your name, the reason for your call, and your contact information. Be clear and concise to ensure the recipient understands your message.