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The Word “Call”: Definitions and Synonyms

Call – Definition and Part of Speech

The word call functions primarily as both a noun and a verb. As a verb, it often means to use one’s voice to attract attention or convey information over distance (“She called her friend to catch up”). As a noun, it can refer to the act of calling itself or the specific content communicated in such an instance (“We received a call about the meeting time”).

Core Synonyms

Here are some synonyms for call, with explanations and usage examples:

Synonym Brief Definition/Nuance Example Sentence Style/Register
Invoke To evoke or bring to mind, often in a formal context. “The lawyer invoked the defendant’s right.” Formal/Professional
Ring Referring specifically to telephone calls. “I will give you a ring tomorrow.” Informal/Casual
Shout To call loudly and with force, often for attention. “He shouted her name from the other end of the street.” Casual/Informal
Appeal A formal request or plea to someone in authority. “The charity sent an appeal for donations.” Formal/Business
Summon To officially request someone’s presence or attention, often with authority. “They were summoned to the principal’s office.” Formal/Professional

Usage Notes

  • Invoke is best suited in formal or professional settings where there is a need for an official or serious tone, such as legal proceedings or scholarly writing.

  • Ring is specifically used when referring to telephone calls and carries a casual connotation, making it perfect for everyday conversations about phone communication.

  • Shout implies a louder, more urgent call and is typically used in informal contexts where the intent is to grab someone’s immediate attention or express urgency.

  • Appeal often appears in contexts involving requests, especially formal ones directed at groups or individuals with the authority or capacity to act, such as businesses or governments.

  • Summon has a connotation of formality and authority, commonly used when one must officially request the presence or action of someone, like calling a person into court.

Common Pitfalls

One common pitfall is using shout where call would be more appropriate in formal contexts. Another confusion can arise with ring, which specifically refers to telephone communication and should not replace general uses of call unless that context applies.

Additionally, appeal and summon are often used interchangeably but carry different implications: an appeal is generally a request or plea for support, whereas a summons typically involves authoritative demand for someone’s presence or compliance with instructions.

Final Recap

In summary:

  • Invoke: Best for formal evocations.
  • Ring: Informal use, specific to phone calls.
  • Shout: Loud and urgent, casual contexts.
  • Appeal: Formal requests directed at authorities.
  • Summon: Authoritative requests for presence or action.

These synonyms help expand the nuances of communication when using call, allowing more precise expression in different settings. To become adept with these terms, practice constructing sentences that fit each synonym’s context and register, enhancing both written and spoken proficiency.