The phrase "called away" is spelled with two syllables: /kɔld/ and /əˈweɪ/. The first syllable, /kɔld/, has the same spelling as the past tense of the verb "to call." The second syllable, /əˈweɪ/, is spelled with the letters "a," "w," "a," and "y." This phrase means to be summoned or required to leave a particular place or situation. It is a common phrase used in professional and personal contexts, such as being called away from work or being called away from a family gathering.
"Called away" refers to an instance where someone is interrupted or forced to leave a particular location, activity, or situation in order to attend to another matter or obligation. The phrase often implies that the person's attention or presence is required elsewhere, resulting in the need for an immediate departure.
Typically, being "called away" implies that the person receives an urgent or important summons, communication, or notification that necessitates their immediate absence from their current engagement. This can occur in various scenarios, such as at work, school, social gatherings, events, or even during personal leisure time. Being "called away" can also involve situations beyond one's control, such as a family emergency, a work-related matter, or a sudden change in plans.
The expression is often used figuratively to convey the idea that an individual is being diverted or taken away from a present situation due to external circumstances. It highlights the notion of an individual being obligated to abruptly abandon their current activity, conversation, or setting to attend to an unforeseen or pressing matter elsewhere.
In essence, being "called away" signifies the act of leaving an ongoing situation or engagement in response to an urgent or pressing matter, typically requiring immediate attention or action.
The phrase "called away" does not have a specific etymology as it is a combination of two separate words, "called" and "away", that maintain their individual meanings.
However, it is worth noting that "call" comes from the Old English word "c(e)allian", which meant "to shout or cry out". Over time, the meaning evolved to include the act of summoning or requesting someone's presence. Similarly, "away" is derived from the Old English word "aweg", which originally meant "on the way" or "on the journey" but gradually transformed into meaning "at a distance" or "not here".
So, when these two words are combined to form "called away", it simply implies being summoned to leave one's current location or activity.