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call for

B1 neutral inseparable transitive
In simple words

Say strongly that something must happen, or go and pick someone up.

Meanings

1 B1 neutral

To publicly demand or appeal for something, especially in a formal or political context.

"Opposition leaders are calling for an independent inquiry into the scandal."

""World leaders called for urgent action on climate change at the summit.""

— The Guardian, 2021
Grammar: inseparable
2 B1 idiomatic neutral

To require or make necessary a particular quality, action, or response.

"This situation calls for a great deal of patience and diplomacy."

""The times called for bold and decisive leadership.""

— Winston Churchill (paraphrased reference in historical accounts)
Grammar: inseparable
3 B1 neutral

British English: to go to a place and collect someone, especially as part of a planned journey.

"I'll call for you at seven — make sure you're ready."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

Very versatile phrasal verb with distinct senses. The 'demand' sense is common in journalism and politics. The 'require' sense is common in formal and professional writing. The 'collect' sense is common in British English.

Commonly used with

action resignation investigation patience skills review

Forms

Base
call for
I/you/we/they
3rd person
calls for
he/she/it
Past simple
called for
yesterday
Past participle
called for
have + pp
-ing form
calling for
continuous

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Synonyms

demand require necessitate advocate for pick up collect

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