Call upon
phrase
To ask someone for something or to do something, in a formal way.
The mayor is going to call upon the federal government for financial assistance.

Often appears as...
- call upon someone for help
- call upon a favor
Usage tips
Formal
phrase
To visit someone.
I will call upon you tonight to discuss this matter.

Often appears as...
- call upon a friend
- call upon a neighbor
Usage tips
Formal
phrase
To use your knowledge or skills.
In troubled times, we call upon our inner strength.

Often appears as...
- call upon knowledge
- call upon skills
phrase
To ask someone for something or to do something, in a formal way.
The mayor is going to call upon the federal government for financial assistance.

Often appears as...
- call upon someone for help
- call upon a favor
Usage tips
Formal
phrase
To visit someone.
I will call upon you tonight to discuss this matter.

Often appears as...
- call upon a friend
- call upon a neighbor
Usage tips
Formal
phrase
To use your knowledge or skills.
In troubled times, we call upon our inner strength.

Often appears as...
- call upon knowledge
- call upon skills
Definition 1 of 3

Formal Requests
Use 'call upon' for serious or official requests, especially during events or in writing.

The committee will call upon the members for additional funding.
Public Speaking
'Call upon' often happens in speeches to engage the audience or ask for action.

I call upon all citizens to participate in the charity event.
Implies Urgency
Using 'call upon' can suggest urgency or importance of the favor or assistance needed.

We must call upon our allies to respond quickly.
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