What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
dialing
Example
I am dialing my friend's number right now. [dialing: present participle]
Example
She taught me how to dial a phone number when I was a child. [dial: verb]
calling
Example
I am calling my mom to wish her a happy birthday. [calling: present participle]
Example
He called me last night to discuss the project. [called: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Calling is more commonly used than dialing in everyday language. Calling is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while dialing is less common and typically used in technical or instructional contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between dialing and calling?
Dialing can be associated with a more formal or technical tone, while calling can be associated with a more casual or conversational tone. However, both words can be used in formal and informal contexts depending on the situation and context.
