# don't call us, we'll call you

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/dont-call-us-well-call-you
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

A stereotypical statement from a hiring organization to a potential candidate, suggesting that the candidate will not be hired.

## Examples

- The manager told me, don't call us, we'll call you.
- After the audition, the director gave a polite smile and said, don't call us, we'll call you.
- Although the interview seemed promising, the recruiter eventually offered the standard, don't call us, we'll call you, effectively ending my hopes for the position.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.