panic call

USAGE SUMMARY

"panic call" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It refers to a phone call made in a state of panic or distress. Example: After hearing news of a serious accident, she immediately made a panic call to her husband, hoping he would be able to rush to the scene and help.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

A vibration lets you know that your panic call and the sort of messages you selected using the app's settings screen have been initiated.

The New York Times

A particular highlight from this period was a panic call to join the Ray Charles orchestra in Paris, following the arrest of one of the singer's saxophonists.

The Guardian - Music

Released by Owens, the turbaned character is set upon by the police, who panic, call him a "fuckin' Arab," and haul him away.

The New Yorker

Within a few months he had a machine patented, and a dramatic early success was a panic call from the Ministry of Works: the great blue carpets laid in the Abbey for the Coronation of Edward VII were dusty from the carpentry work.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

When that five-foot template collapsed, Mr. Lamson, in a panic, called for expert advice.

The New York Times - Arts

Ms. Lucas flew into a panic, calling other business owners to see if they had any information.

The New York Times - Books

Mr. Plummer stumbles beautifully, poignantly and often, leering and searching through a haze of memory or, with concern edged with panic, calling for "a line, a line" much as Richard III calls for a horse.

The New York Times

Veteran employees were in a panic, calling around to see what the new boss wanted.

Forbes

Fellini rushed out in panic, calling back to me, "You can stay if you wish.

Huffington Post

It purportedly showed that more women are abused by men on Super Sunday than on any other day of the year and that women's shelters receive an onslaught of panic calls.

Los Angeles Times

The panicked call from Nurse Stanley roused Dr. Matthew from his bed.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "panic call", ensure the context clearly conveys a sense of urgency and fear. Avoid using it in situations where the call is merely inconvenient or annoying, as this diminishes the impact of the phrase.

Common error

A common mistake is using "panic call" to describe situations that are stressful but not genuinely life-threatening or critical. Reserve this phrase for scenarios involving real danger or extreme distress to maintain its appropriate impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "panic call" functions primarily as a noun phrase, describing a specific type of communication. Ludwig indicates that it's a correct and usable phrase in written English, often referring to an urgent phone call made in a state of distress.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "panic call" is a grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe an urgent phone call made in a state of extreme anxiety or fear. Ludwig confirms its validity and usability in written English. The phrase is most frequently found in News & Media contexts, emphasizing a sense of urgency and distress. While relatively rare, "panic call" is a powerful term when used appropriately, conveying a critical need for immediate assistance. Related phrases include "emergency call" and "distress call".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

emergency call

Focuses on the urgency and need for immediate assistance.

distress call

Highlights the sender's state of severe trouble or danger.

urgent request for help

Emphasizes the need for assistance in a critical situation.

frantic phone call

Describes the emotional state behind the call being made.

cry for help

Suggests a desperate plea for assistance.

alarm call

Indicates a warning signal or notification of danger.

sos signal

Uses the internationally recognized symbol of distress.

mayday call

Utilizes the aviation and maritime term for emergency situations.

911 call

Specifically refers to the emergency number in North America.

critical alert

Highlights the critical nature of the notification.

FAQs

What does "panic call" mean?

A "panic call" refers to a phone call made in a state of extreme anxiety, fear, or distress, typically indicating an urgent need for help or intervention.

When is it appropriate to use the term "panic call"?

Use "panic call" when describing situations where someone is experiencing intense fear or anxiety and urgently seeks assistance. It implies a high level of distress and a critical need for immediate response.

What are some alternative phrases for "panic call"?

You can use alternatives like "emergency call", "distress call", or "urgent request for help" depending on the specific context.

Is there a difference between a "panic call" and an "emergency call"?

While both terms denote urgency, a "panic call" emphasizes the caller's emotional state of fear and anxiety, while an "emergency call" focuses on the severity and immediacy of the situation requiring assistance, regardless of the caller's emotional state.