Differences between button up and call up
Button up means to fasten all the buttons on a piece of clothing, especially a coat or shirt, while call up means to make a phone call or to summon someone to a higher position or level.
Meanings and Definitions: button up vs call up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Button up
- 1To fasten all the buttons on a piece of clothing.
His jacket was buttoned up right to the neck.
- 2To fasten all the buttons of a garment.
None of my jackets buttons up properly.
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: button up, call up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
button up
Example
Please button up your coat before going outside.
Example
She always buttons up her shirt before leaving the house.
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 Button up
zip up
To fasten a zipper on a piece of clothing.
Example
It's getting cold outside. You should zip up your jacket.
buckle up
To fasten a seatbelt or a belt on a piece of clothing.
Example
Before starting the car, make sure to buckle up for safety.
tie up
To fasten a knot or a bow on a piece of clothing or an object.
Example
He asked his son to tie up his shoelaces before going out to play.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Call up
ring up
To make a phone call to someone.
Example
I need to ring up my friend and ask her about the party details.
phone up
To make a phone call to someone.
Example
He decided to phone up his boss and ask for a day off.
summon up
To call or request someone to come to a higher position or level.
Example
The manager decided to summon up the employee for a performance review.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “call”
- call round
- call back
- call for
- call around
- call after
Phrasal Verbs with “up”
Differences in button up vs call up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: button up or call up?
In everyday conversation, call up is more common than button up. This is because making phone calls is a routine activity for most people, while buttoning up clothes is not something that comes up as frequently. However, both phrases are used in different contexts and situations.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of button up and call up
Call up can be used in both formal and informal settings, depending on the context. It is a common phrase used in business and professional communication. On the other hand, button up is an informal phrase that is mostly used in casual conversations.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of button up and call up
The tone of button up and call up can differ based on context. Button up often carries a practical or functional tone when related to clothing, while call up typically has a social or professional tone, especially when referring to making phone calls or summoning someone to a higher position.
