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Which is the correct expression?

Phrasal verbs "call in" vs "call on"

Differences between call in and call on

Call in means to request someone to come to a place, especially for help or advice. On the other hand, call on means to visit someone, usually for a specific purpose such as to ask a question or make a request.

Meanings and Definitions: call in vs call on

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Call in

  • 1Get someone to come and do a job.

    We had to CALL IN a plumber because the sink was leaking and I had no idea how to fix it.

  • 2Stop and visit.

    I CALLED IN on Jenny on my way home because she's not very well at the moment and I wanted to see if she needed anything.

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 in, call on in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

call in

Example

We need to call in a professional to fix the roof.

Example

She calls in a cleaning service every month.

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 in

To request help or support from someone.

Example

I had to call in a plumber to fix the leaky faucet in my kitchen.

To seek advice or guidance from someone with expertise or experience.

Example

I need to consult with my lawyer before signing the contract.

bring in

To introduce or involve someone or something in a situation or discussion.

Example

We need to bring in a specialist to analyze the data and provide insights.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Call on

To visit someone informally and briefly without prior notice.

Example

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

To visit someone, usually for social or friendly reasons.

Example

I want to pay a visit to my grandparents this weekend.

To visit someone briefly while on the way to another destination.

Example

I'm going to stop by the store to buy some groceries on my way home.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “call”

Phrasal Verbs with “in”

Phrasal Verbs with “on”

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

Frequency in Daily Use: call in or call on?

Both call in and call on are commonly used in everyday conversation, but call on is slightly more common. People use call on when they want to visit someone, while call in is used when they want to ask for help or advice.

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

Both call in and call on are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. However, call on can be used in more formal settings like business or academic contexts when it means to invite someone to speak or participate in an event.

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

The tone of call in and call on can differ based on context. Call in often carries a sense of urgency or need, while call on typically has a more polite and respectful tone, especially when visiting someone.

call in & call on: Synonyms and Antonyms

Call in

Antonyms

Call on

Synonyms

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

Antonyms

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