call a friend

Meaning

This phrase means to contact a friend using a telephone or smartphone. It can be used when you want to chat, make plans, or ask for help.

Examples

• I need to call a friend to see if she is free this weekend.

  I need to call a friend to see if she is free this weekend.

• When I feel sad, I usually call a friend to talk about it.

  When I feel sad, I usually call a friend to talk about it.

• Could you call a friend and ask for directions to the restaurant?

  Could you call a friend and ask for directions to the restaurant?

• I will call a friend during my lunch break today.

  I will call a friend during my lunch break today.

• It is always nice to call a friend you haven't spoken to in a while.

  It is always nice to call a friend you haven't spoken to in a while.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ I am going to call to a friend tonight.

  ✓ I am going to call a friend tonight.

  The verb 'call' takes a direct object. Do not use the preposition 'to' after 'call' when phoning someone.

• ✗ I need to phone call a friend.

  ✓ I need to call a friend.

  'Phone call' is a noun phrase. Use either the verb 'call' or 'phone', but do not combine them as a verb.

Related Expressions

Practice

• If you don't know the answer, you can ___.

  💡 Telephone someone you know.

  Show answer

  call a friend

• I usually ___ when I get home from work.

  💡 Use your phone to speak with a buddy.

  Show answer

  call a friend