Calling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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calling

[ˈkɔːlɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

phone usage

A phone call or a communication with someone over the phone.

Synonyms

communication, conversation, phone call.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
calling	Used to describe the action of making a phone call or the sound/action of someone or something trying to attract attention. It has a broader, general use compared to 'phone call'. I heard my name being called from across the room. He's calling his friends to inform them about the change in plans.
phone call	Specifically refers to the act of communicating with someone via a telephone. It is a more precise term than 'calling'. I received a phone call from my mother this morning. She made a phone call to the customer service department.
communication	Refers to the process of exchanging information or expressing thoughts and feelings. It is usually used in a broader context, not limited to phone calls. Effective communication is key to any successful relationship. They use email and messaging apps for communication.
conversation	Describes an informal or formal exchange of ideas, thoughts, and feelings between two or more people. It can happen in person, over the phone, or through other mediums. We had a deep conversation about our future plans. Their conversation was interrupted by a loud noise.

Examples of usage

I received a calling from my friend yesterday.
She ignored his calling and continued with her work.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

vocation

A strong inner urge to pursue a particular career or profession.

Synonyms

career choice, passion, vocation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
calling	Used to describe a deep sense of purpose or a strong urge to follow a particular career or path in life, often with an implication of a higher or spiritual motivation. She felt a calling to become a doctor after volunteering in a remote village. His calling was to help endangered animals.
vocation	Similar to 'calling,' this term is used to describe an occupation to which a person is particularly drawn or for which they are suited, trained, or qualified. It often has a connotation of dedication and commitment. Teaching is not just a job for her; it's her vocation. He discovered his vocation in life when he started working with disadvantaged youth.
passion	Describes a strong and intense emotion or enthusiasm for something. It can apply to hobbies, interests, or careers, and emphasizes the emotional connection and enjoyment one gets from the activity. His passion for painting was evident in every brushstroke. She pursued her passion for cooking by enrolling in culinary school.
career choice	Refers to a decision made about which profession or job to pursue. It is often used in discussions about career planning or making decisions about one's professional path. Deciding on a career choice early can help you focus your studies and gain relevant experience. Jane's career choice in engineering was influenced by her love for solving problems.

Examples of usage

Teaching has always been her calling.
He felt a calling to help those in need.

^{Context #3 | Adjective}

religious

A strong inner impulse prompting a person to a particular course of action, especially a religious one.

Synonyms

divine inspiration, religious calling, spiritual guidance.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
calling	Occurs more generally and can be used in non-religious contexts to describe a deep-seated urge to perform a certain task or pursue a career. He finally found his calling as a chef after trying multiple careers. She believes that helping others is her true calling in life.
religious calling	Describes a profound belief that one is meant to serve in a specific religious role or capacity, often implying a life dedicated to religious service or duties. He experienced a religious calling to become a monk and dedicate his life to spiritual practices. Her religious calling led her to serve as a missionary in distant lands.
divine inspiration	Used to indicate that a person is motivated or guided by a force they believe to be heavenly or godly, often used in a spiritual or religious context. The artist claimed that his masterpiece was created through divine inspiration. She wrote her best poems when she felt divine inspiration.
spiritual guidance	Refers to the advice or direction given to someone believed to be inspired by spirituality or religious faith, often from a higher power or spiritual leader. She sought spiritual guidance from her pastor during difficult times. He felt at peace after receiving spiritual guidance from a wise elder.

Examples of usage

She felt a calling to join the monastery.
His calling was to serve the community through his church.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'calling'

The word 'calling' has its roots in Old English, where it was originally used to refer to a loud cry or shout. Over time, its meaning evolved to include a strong inner urge or conviction, especially in the context of vocation or religious duty. The concept of 'calling' has been a central theme in various philosophical and religious traditions, emphasizing the idea of a higher purpose or destiny guiding an individual's life choices.

See also: call, caller, callous, calls, callus, recall.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,285, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.

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