What does the phrasal verb “call back” mean?

What are the definitions of “call back”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Return a phonecall.

  I must CALL her BACK when we get to the office.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “call back”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb call back is to return a phone call. It means to call someone again, usually after they have called you first or after you have missed their call.

What are the different verb forms of “call back”?

Root Verb	call back
Third Person Singular Present	calls back
Present Participle	calling back
Simple Past	called back
Past Participle	called back

Example

I will call back my friend after I finish my work.

Example

She always calls back her clients within an hour.

Example

He is calling back the customer to provide an update on their order.

Example

Yesterday, I called back the company to confirm my appointment.

Example

The missed calls have been called back by the receptionist.

What kind of phrasal verb is “call back”?

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a transitive and intransitive verb?
- A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.)
- An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)

Transitive verb

“call back” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.

Example

I called back my friend after I finished my work.

Example

She called the client back as soon as she received the message.

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb?
- A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle.
- An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.

Inseparable

“call back” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.

Example

I called back my friend after I finished my work.

Example

She called the client back as soon as she received the message.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “call back”?

Call back later

To return a phone call at a later time.

Example

I'm busy right now, so I'll call back later.

Call someone back for an interview

To invite someone to return for a second interview or audition.

Example

The company called her back for a second interview after her impressive performance.

Call back a product

To request the return of a product, usually due to a defect or safety concern.

Example

The manufacturer called back the faulty toys to ensure customer safety.

Good things to know

Does “call back” have an informal or formal tone?

Call back is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal situations. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in professional settings, such as business phone calls or customer service interactions.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “call back”?

Synonyms

• respond
• return a call
• phone back
• ring back
• get back to

Antonyms

• ignore
• miss
• neglect
• overlook
• disregard