Differences between break up and call up
Break up usually means to end a romantic relationship or to separate something into smaller pieces, whereas call up generally means to make a phone call or to bring something to mind.
Meanings and Definitions: break up vs call up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Break up
- 1Break into many pieces.
The plate BROKE UP when he dropped it on the floor.
- 2Close an educational institution for the holidays.
Schools BREAK UP at the end of June for the summer holidays.
- 3Finish a relationship.
They had been going out for a couple of years before they BROKE UP.
- 4Become inaudible over the telephone because of interference.
You're BREAKING UP; I'll call you back in a minute and see if we get a better connection.
Call up
- 1Summon someone for military service.
The army CALLED UP the reserve soldiers when the war broke out.
- 2Telephone.
I CALLED him UP as soon as I got to a phone to tell him the news.
Usage Examples: break up, call up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
break up
Example
They decided to break up after dating for two years.
Example
She breaks up with her boyfriend because they have different goals.
call up
Example
I need to call up my mom to check on her.
Example
She calls up her sister every weekend.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Break up
split up
To end a romantic relationship or to separate from someone.
Example
After months of fighting, they finally decided to split up and move on with their lives.
To break apart or dissolve a group or organization.
Example
The band decided to disband after their final concert, marking the end of an era.
To take apart or break down a structure or system.
Example
The workers had to dismantle the old building before starting construction on the new one.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Call up
To make a phone call to someone.
Example
I need to phone my mom and let her know I'll be late for dinner.
ring up
To call someone on the phone.
Example
I'm going to ring up my friend and see if she wants to grab lunch today.
To bring something to mind or remember it.
Example
I can't recall where I put my keys this morning. Have you seen them?
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “break”
Phrasal Verbs with “call”
- call around
- call off
- call forth
- call round
- call after
Phrasal Verbs with “up”
Differences in break up vs call up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: break up or call up?
In daily conversation, people use call up more often than break up. This is because call up is used for more routine tasks such as making phone calls or recalling information. Break up is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about ending a romantic relationship. So, while both phrases are used, call up is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of break up and call up
Call up and break up are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of break up and call up
The tone of call up and break up can differ based on context. Call up often carries a practical or nostalgic tone when related to making phone calls or recalling memories, while break up typically has a serious or emotional tone, especially when referring to ending a romantic relationship.
