Call upon Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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call upon
[kɔːl əˈpɒn ]
Definition
to request someone to do something
To call upon someone is to ask them to do something, usually because you need their help or expertise. It can also mean to appeal to or invoke someone or something for support. This phrasal verb is commonly used in formal or professional settings.
Synonyms
appeal to, ask for, invoke, request.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| call upon |
used in formal situations or addresses, often when someone is summoned to do something or to speak.
|
| request |
used in both formal and informal settings, slightly more formal than 'ask for', often written or politely spoken.
|
| ask for |
most commonly used in everyday, informal situations when making a request.
|
| invoke |
typically used in formal or legal contexts, often implies calling on a law, rule, or higher power for support.
|
| appeal to |
often used when trying to persuade or convince someone by making an emotional or urgent request.
|
Examples of usage
- He called upon his colleagues to assist him with the project.
- The President called upon the nation to come together in times of crisis.
- She called upon her experience to solve the difficult problem.
- They called upon the services of a professional to fix the issue.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Origin of 'call upon'
The expression 'call upon' dates back to the 16th century and has its origins in Middle English and Old French. The word 'call' comes from the Old Norse 'kalla' and the Old English 'ceallian,' both meaning 'to cry out' or 'to summon.' The addition of 'upon' emphasizes the act of requesting or invoking someone or something. Over time, 'call upon' has become a widely used phrasal verb in the English language.