call in

What does "call in" mean?

1. To phone a workplace to report absence or give information
2. To request someone's help or expertise
3. To demand repayment of a loan

Examples

• She called in sick this morning.
• The police called in a hostage negotiator.
• The bank called in all outstanding loans.
• Several listeners called in to share their opinions.
• We need to call in an expert for this problem.

How to use it

'Call in sick' is a very common expression for notifying work of illness. 'Call-in' radio shows take listener calls.

Word order

Object can go between: 'call the expert in' or 'call in a specialist'

Similar expressions

Related phrasal verbs

• call off

  To cancel an event or activity

• call up

  To telephone someone

• call back

  To return a phone call

• call out

  To publicly criticize or challenge someone

• call for

  To demand or require something

• get in

  To enter a place, building, or vehicle