on the phone, hang up the phone, phone tag

Formal and Informal Expressions of phones

In different contexts, you can replace 'phones' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'telephone' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'cell, mobile' is a commonplace synonym.

phones: Explore its Definition & Usage

phones Definition

1a device that converts sound into an electrical signal, which can then be transmitted over distances and then converts received signals back into sounds
2short for telephone

Using phones: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "phones" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
I forgot my phone at home.
Example
She answered the phone on the first ring.
Example
He spent hours talking on the phone with his girlfriend.
Example
I need to buy a new phone.

phones Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for phones

telephone
mobile
cellphone
smartphone

Phrases with phones

on the phone
talking on the telephone
Example
I was on the phone with my boss for an hour.
hang up the phone
end a phone call
Example
I had to hang up the phone because I had another call coming in.
phone tag
a situation where two people keep missing each other's phone calls
Example
We played phone tag for a week before we finally connected.

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Summary: phones in Brief

The term 'phones' [fohnz] refers to a device that converts sound into an electrical signal, which can then be transmitted over distances and then converts received signals back into sounds. It is also short for 'telephone.' 'Phones' are used for communication and come in various forms like 'cellphone,' 'mobile,' and 'smartphone.' Phrases like 'on the phone' and 'hang up the phone' are common, as well as the term 'phone tag,' which describes a situation where two people keep missing each other's phone calls.