on call basis

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on call basis" is correct and can be used in written English.
It typically means to be available for work or service as needed. For example, you could say: "The doctor works on a on call basis and will respond to any medical emergency at any time of the day or night."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

In reality, a NATO official said, maritime operations, the no-fly zone and most strike sorties have already ended, with countries removing their aircraft from NATO-controlled bases or keeping them grounded on an "on call" basis.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

BURLINGTON, Vt .— The United States District Court here hired a Creole translator on an on-call basis in February.

The New York Times

At a day rate, on an on-call basis.

HuffPost

The station operated on a paid-on-call basis, meaning the firehouse is not staffed at all times.

Huffington Post

Cheryl worked at PeaceHealth over 20 years in social work and continues to be employed at the facility on an on-call basis.

Huffington Post

And last week, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management amended its shutdown contingency plan to bring back dozens of furloughed employees, some on an on-call basis, to continue work on offshore drilling activities.

Huffington Post

And last week, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management amended its shutdown contingency plan to bring back dozens of furloughed employees, some on an on-call basis, to continue work on offshore drilling activities.

HuffPost

And after worldwide labour deregulation during the past decades' neoliberal reforms, they are now free to hire workers on a casual or on-call basis to reduce labour costs.

Huffington Post

Courier pickup of isolates on an on-call basis was also arranged.

Emerging Infectious Diseases

They provide intense care for a few days at a time and operate on a 24/7 on-call basis.

BMC Palliative Care

Hospice rapid response teams, which provide specialist palliative care at home on a 24/7 on-call basis, are proposed as an effective way to help terminally ill patients die in their preferred place, usually at home.

BMC Palliative Care

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "on call basis", clarify the expected response time and availability commitment. For example, specify if it means 24/7 availability or availability during business hours.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "on call basis" implies a specific level of commitment. Always define the expected hours, response times, and duties to prevent misunderstandings between parties.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on call basis" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe the manner in which someone works or is available. Ludwig indicates that this is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "on call basis" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a flexible working arrangement. As Ludwig highlights, it signifies availability for work or service as needed, rather than adhering to a fixed schedule. Its neutral register makes it appropriate for various contexts, from news reports to scientific publications. While the phrase is widely understood, clarifying the specific expectations and commitments associated with it remains essential to avoid misunderstandings. Alternatives such as "as needed" or "when required" can be used depending on the context, but "on call basis" clearly conveys the sense of being readily available when summoned.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as needed

Focuses on need-based availability, less formal than "on call basis".

when required

Similar to 'as needed', but can imply a more formal or structured necessity.

subject to call

Highlights the potential to be summoned, common in legal or contractual settings.

available upon request

Emphasizes the act of requesting, suitable for customer service or informational contexts.

contingent upon demand

Highlights dependency on demand, often used in supply chain or resource management.

standby

Implies readiness and immediate availability.

on-demand

Focuses on immediacy and user-initiated service.

per diem

Highlights payment structure based on days worked, can imply on-call availability.

at short notice

Focuses on the limited warning time before being needed.

resource pool

Implies a group of individuals available for tasks as needed, often in business settings.

FAQs

How can I use "on call basis" in a sentence?

You can use "on call basis" to describe a working arrangement, such as "The nurse works "on call basis" and is available for emergencies.".

What does working on an "on call basis" mean?

Working on an "on call basis" typically means that you are available to work when needed, rather than having a fixed schedule. You may be "subject to call" at any time.

What are some alternatives to "on call basis"?

Alternatives to "on call basis" include "as needed", "when required", or "available upon request", depending on the specific context.

What is the difference between "on call basis" and "standby"?

"Standby" implies immediate readiness and availability, while "on call basis" may allow for a slightly longer response time. However, both suggest a state of being "subject to call".