Phrasal verb
call for sth
Definition
phrasal verb. to publicly ask for something to happen because it is necessary or right.
phrasal verb. to demand or require a particular action, quality, or response; often used in the context of public appeals or situational requirements.
Examples
“The protesters call for a change in the law.”
“The current economic crisis calls for immediate action from the central bank to prevent further inflation.”
“The complexity of the international treaty calls for a level of diplomatic finesse that few negotiators currently possess.”
Examples
simple
“The protesters call for a change in the law.”
contextual
“The current economic crisis calls for immediate action from the central bank to prevent further inflation.”
complex
“The complexity of the international treaty calls for a level of diplomatic finesse that few negotiators currently possess.”
Usage
usually followed by a noun representing a needed action, such as 'justice', 'reform', or 'resignation'.
Teaching tip
contrast with 'demand' (more aggressive) and 'require' (more neutral/technical); 'call for' is very common in news headlines for public demands.
Pitfall
The situation calls a new approach.
The situation calls for a new approach.
the preposition 'for' is essential to link the verb to the requirement; without it, the meaning changes to 'phoning someone'.
Phrasal verb
Particles
for
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
call + for + object