What are the definitions of “call forth”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Make something happen.
The protests CALLED FORTH a strong reaction from the police.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “call forth”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb call forth is to make something happen or cause a particular reaction or response. It is often used to describe situations where an event or action leads to a specific outcome or consequence.
What are the different verb forms of “call forth”?
| Root Verb | call forth |
| Third Person Singular Present | calls forth |
| Present Participle | calling forth |
| Simple Past | called forth |
| Past Participle | called forth |
Example
The beautiful sunset called forth feelings of peace and tranquility.
Example
Her speech calls forth a standing ovation from the audience.
Example
The loud noise is calling forth complaints from the neighbors.
Example
The announcement called forth a wave of excitement among the students.
Example
The inspiring story called forth a sense of hope and determination in everyone.
What kind of phrasal verb is “call forth”?
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 forth” 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 news called forth a strong reaction from the public.
Example
Her performance called forth tears of joy from the audience.
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 forth” 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 news called forth a strong reaction from the public.
Example
Her performance called forth tears of joy from the audience.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “call forth”?
Good things to know
Does “call forth” have an informal or formal tone?
Call forth is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is appropriate for use in everyday conversations, as well as in more formal settings, such as academic writing or professional communication.
