Differences between call around and call on

Call around means to make several phone calls or visits to different places in order to get information or help, while call on means to visit someone, usually for a specific purpose or to ask for something.

Meanings and Definitions: call around vs call on

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Call around

1Visit.
I CALLED AROUND but she wasn't in.

Call on

1Ask for help.
The President CALLED ON the wealthy countries for financial aid after the floods destroyed much of the country's agriculture.
2Visit.
As we were in the area, we CALLED ON my sister - in - law.
3Challenge.
He CALLED the speaker ON several mis - statements of fact.
4Ask someone to do something, especially to speak in public. ( Formal ).
I now CALL ON the other party to give their account of what happened.

Usage Examples: call around, call on in Sentences

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call around

Example

I will call around to see if anyone has seen my lost cat.

Example

She calls around to her friends every weekend to catch up.

call on

Example

The teacher called on the student to answer the question.

Example

She calls on her neighbor to help her with the groceries.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Call around

make the rounds

To visit several places or people in order to accomplish a task or gather information.

Example

I need to make the rounds and visit all the local stores to find the best deal on a new laptop.

shop around

To visit multiple stores or websites to compare prices and quality before making a purchase.

Example

Before buying a new car, it's always a good idea to shop around and compare prices and features.

look into

To investigate or research a topic or issue in order to gain more information or understanding.

Example

We need to look into the safety regulations before starting construction on the new building.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Call on

drop by

To visit someone briefly and informally, usually without prior notice.

Example

I'm going to drop by my friend's house after work to say hello.

pay a visit

To visit someone, usually for a specific purpose or to show respect or support.

Example

I'm going to pay a visit to my grandmother in the hospital this weekend.

stop in

To visit someone briefly and informally, usually while on the way to another destination.

Example

I'm going to stop in at the coffee shop to see if they have any new pastries before heading to work.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “call”

Phrasal Verbs with “around”

Phrasal Verbs with “on”

Differences in call around vs call on: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: call around or call on?

Both call around and call on are used in everyday conversation, but call on is more common. It's often used when we want to visit someone at their home or office. Call around is less common, but it's still used when we need to make multiple phone calls or visits to gather information.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of call around and call on

Call around and call on are both informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations. However, call on can also be used in more formal settings such as business meetings or academic presentations.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of call around and call on

The tone of call around and call on can differ based on context. Call around often carries a sense of urgency or frustration when we need to gather information quickly. On the other hand, call on typically has a more polite and respectful tone, especially when we're visiting someone's home or office.

call around & call on: Synonyms and Antonyms

Call around

Synonyms

Antonyms

Call on

Synonyms

summon
invite
ask for help
request assistance
seek support
solicit aid
enlist help
appeal to

Antonyms

ignore
disregard
neglect
overlook
decline help
refuse assistance
reject support
deny aid