# call on sb to do sth

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/call-on-sb-to-do-sth
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to ask someone or an organization to do something, usually in a formal or public way.

For teachers: to formally request or appeal to a person or entity to perform a specific action; often used in political or institutional contexts.

## Examples

- The president called on the citizens to stay calm.
- Human rights groups have called on the government to change the law immediately.
- The United Nations has called on all parties to the conflict to observe a permanent ceasefire and allow humanitarian aid to pass.

## Pitfalls

- Not "They called on the public for help them." but "They called on the public to help them." — this specific meaning requires the 'to + infinitive' structure after the object.

## Usage notes

- usually used in formal news reports or official statements rather than casual conversation.
- Teaching tip: contrast with the literal 'call on someone' (to visit) or the classroom sense (to ask a student to answer); this version requires the infinitive 'to do' structure.

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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.