Phrasal verbs "call on" vs "let on"

Differences between call on and let on

Call on means to ask someone to speak or answer a question in a formal setting, while let on means to reveal or admit something that was previously kept secret.

Meanings and Definitions: call on vs let on

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

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.

Let on

  • 1Tell a secret.

    I didn't mean to LET ON about the party; I just said it without thinking.

Usage Examples: call on, let on in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

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.

let on

Example

She didn't let on that she knew about the surprise party.

Example

He never lets on when he knows something he shouldn't.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Call on

To request someone's opinion or feedback on a specific topic or issue.

Example

During the meeting, the manager asked for input from the team on how to improve customer satisfaction.

To request someone to speak or present their ideas in a formal setting.

Example

The professor invited the guest speaker to speak about their research findings in the field of neuroscience.

To officially request someone's presence in a formal setting, such as a court or hearing.

Example

The judge summoned the witness to appear in court to testify about the incident.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Let on

spill the beans

To reveal a secret or confidential information that was previously kept hidden.

Example

She accidentally spilled the beans about the surprise party, ruining the whole plan.

To admit the truth or confess to something that was previously denied or concealed.

Example

After months of lying, he finally decided to come clean about his involvement in the scandal.

To reveal or disclose something that was meant to be kept secret or unknown.

Example

Her facial expression gave away her true feelings about the situation, even though she tried to hide them.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “call”

Phrasal Verbs with “let”

Phrasal Verbs with “on”

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

Frequency in Daily Use: call on or let on?

In daily conversation, people use let on more often than call on. This is because let on is used for more personal situations such as revealing a secret or admitting something. Call on is not used as much in everyday conversation. It's mainly used in formal settings like classrooms or meetings. So, while both phrases are used, let on is more common in everyday conversation.

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

Call on and let on have different levels of formality. Call on is a formal phrase often used in academic or professional settings. It's suitable for situations where you need to ask someone to speak or answer a question. Let on is an informal phrase often used in casual conversations. It's suitable for situations where you want to reveal something or admit something to someone you know well.

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

The tone of call on and let on can differ based on context. Call on often carries a formal and serious tone when related to asking someone to speak or answer a question. On the other hand, let on typically has a more relaxed and casual tone, especially when referring to revealing a secret or admitting something.

call on & let on: Synonyms and Antonyms

Call on

Synonyms

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

Antonyms

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