phone

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "phone" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a telephone or mobile device, either as a noun or as a verb meaning to call someone. Example: "Please give me a call on my phone later this evening."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Five minutes later, the phone rang again.

The New York Times

His phone rang.

The New York Times

The Guardian, which was first published in 1821, is most recently renowned for its agenda-setting NSA and GCHQ revelations following disclosures by whistleblower Edward Snowden, its globally acclaimed investigation into phone hacking and the launch of its groundbreaking digital-first strategy in 2011 and its trailblazing partnership with WikiLeaks in 2010.

The Guardian

He told Channel 4 News: "I've told you the first I became aware of this, and this is already on the public record, was when I received a phone call on Friday afternoon from a journalist making me aware of it".

The Guardian

"Can the government require you to buy a cell phone because that would facilitate responding when you need emergency services?

The Guardian

Amendments adopted in 2014, for example, give authorities the right to cut internet and mobile phone access without judicial review.

The Guardian

· To contact the MediaGuardian newsdesk email [email protected] or phone [phone] · If you are writing a comment for publication, please mark clearly "for publication".

The Guardian

The Guardian is also known for its globally acclaimed investigation into phone hacking, the launch of its groundbreaking digital-first strategy in 2011 and its trailblazing partnership with WikiLeaks in 2010.

The Guardian

· To contact the MediaGuardian newsdesk email [email protected] or phone [phone].

The Guardian

The phone went dead.

The New York Times

Please include a daytime phone number.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, consider your audience and choose between "phone", "telephone", "mobile phone" or "cell phone" to fit the context and level of formality.

Common error

In formal writing, avoid overuse of the abbreviated term "phone". Instead, use "telephone" for a more professional tone, especially in business reports or academic papers.

Linguistic Context

The word "phone" primarily functions as a noun, referring to a device used for communication. According to Ludwig, the phrase follows standard grammar rules. It can also function as a verb, meaning to call someone.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "phone" is a versatile word that can function as both a noun and a verb, primarily related to telecommunications. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage. As a noun, it refers to a communication device, and as a verb, it means to call someone. While "telephone" might be considered more formal, "phone" is acceptable in most contexts, especially in news and media. Its high frequency and consistent usage across numerous authoritative sources, such as The Guardian and The New York Times, solidify its place in contemporary English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

telephone

A more formal term for phone.

mobile phone

Specifies a portable phone.

cell phone

Another term for a mobile phone, common in North America.

smartphone

Indicates a phone with advanced computing capabilities.

call

Referring to the act of using a phone.

telephone call

A more formal way to describe calling someone.

make a call

Expresses the action of initiating a phone call.

give someone a ring

Informal way to say 'call someone'.

get in touch by phone

Describes contacting someone via telephone.

phone someone

Using "phone" as a verb.

FAQs

How can I use the word "phone" in a sentence?

You can use "phone" as a noun, such as "I left my phone at home", or as a verb, such as "I'll phone you later tonight".

What's a more formal alternative to "phone"?

A more formal alternative to "phone" is "telephone". Use "telephone" in professional or academic contexts.

Is it correct to use "phone" as a verb?

Yes, it is correct to use "phone" as a verb, meaning to call someone. For example, "I'll phone you tomorrow."

What's the difference between a "phone" and a "smartphone"?

A "phone" is a general term for a device used to make calls. A "smartphone" is a type of mobile phone that offers advanced computing capabilities and internet access.