Differences between call for and call on
Call for means to require or demand something, while call on means to ask someone to do something or to visit someone.
Meanings and Definitions: call for vs call on
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Call for
- 1Demand.
The Opposition party CALLED FOR the minister's resignation after the scandal broke.
- 2Go to collect something.
The courier CALLED FOR your parcel, but I told him it wasn't ready yet.
- 3Telephone for something.
I'll CALL FOR a cab right away.
- 4Go and collect someone to take them out.
I'll CALL FOR you at seven, so be ready because the film starts at half past.
- 5Require.
An emergency like this CALLS FOR some pretty drastic action.
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 for, call on in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
call for
Example
The recipe calls for two cups of sugar.
Example
The situation calls for immediate action.
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 for
To need or demand something as necessary.
Example
The job requires a high level of attention to detail.
To insist on something being done or provided.
Example
The protesters demanded justice for the victims of police brutality.
To make something necessary or essential.
Example
The new regulations necessitate stricter safety measures in the workplace.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Call on
To politely ask for something or to make a formal demand for something.
Example
He requested a meeting with his supervisor to discuss his performance review.
Differences in call for vs call on: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: call for or call on?
In daily conversation, people use call for more often than call on. This is because call for is used for more daily tasks and routines such as picking up someone or ordering food. Call on is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about asking someone to do something or visiting someone. So, while both phrases are used, call for is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of call for and call on
Call for and call on 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 call for and call on
The tone of call for and call on can differ based on context. Call for often carries a demanding or urgent tone when related to requiring something, while call on typically has a polite and respectful tone, especially when referring to asking someone to do something or visiting someone.
