What are the definitions of “call for”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 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.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “call for”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb call for is to demand or require something. It is often used when a situation needs a specific action or response. For example, it can mean demanding a person's resignation, asking for help, or requiring a certain skill.
What are the different verb forms of “call for”?
| Root Verb | call for |
| Third Person Singular Present | calls for |
| Present Participle | calling for |
| Simple Past | called for |
| Past Participle | called for |
Example
The recipe calls for two cups of sugar.
Example
The situation calls for immediate action.
Example
The protesters are calling for justice.
Example
The teacher called for silence in the classroom.
Example
The emergency called for quick thinking and teamwork.
What kind of phrasal verb is “call for”?
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 for” 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
The recipe calls for two cups of sugar.
Example
The situation calls for immediate action.
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 for” 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
The recipe calls for two cups of sugar.
Example
The situation calls for immediate action.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “call for”?
Good things to know
Does “call for” have an informal or formal tone?
Call for 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 more formal settings, such as news reports, business meetings, or academic discussions. The level of formality depends on the context in which it is used.
