on the phone
/ɒn ðə fəʊn/
Meaning
This expression describes the state of being actively engaged in a telephone call or actively using a smartphone. It can refer to speaking to someone or, in modern usage, spending time browsing or using apps on a mobile device.
Examples
-
Can you whisper? I'm on the phone with my doctor.
Can you whisper? I'm on the phone with my doctor.
-
She has been on the phone for over an hour talking to her sister.
She has been on the phone for over an hour talking to her sister.
-
He was on the phone with customer service trying to get a refund.
He was on the phone with customer service trying to get a refund.
-
My teenager is always on the phone instead of doing homework.
My teenager is always on the phone instead of doing homework.
-
I was on the phone, so I didn't hear you knock on the door.
I was on the phone, so I didn't hear you knock on the door.
Common Mistakes
-
✗ I talked to her in the phone.
✓ I talked to her on the phone.
We use the preposition 'on' for electronic media and communication devices, not 'in'.
-
✗ She is currently by the phone.
✓ She is currently on the phone.
'By the phone' means standing physically next to a phone, whereas 'on the phone' means actively using it to communicate.
Related Expressions
Practice
-
Sorry, I can't talk right now, I am ___.
💡 Speaking on a telephone call.
Show answer
on the phone
-
Who were you ___ with for so long last night?
💡 Having a call with.
Show answer
on the phone