The phrase "calls up" is spelled in a straightforward manner using standard English phonetics. The first word is pronounced /kɔːlz/ with a long "o" sound and a voiced "z" at the end. The second word "up" is pronounced /ʌp/ with a short "u" sound and a popping "p" at the end. When put together, "calls up" is pronounced as /kɔːlz ʌp/. This phrase typically means to summon, invoke, or recall something to mind, such as memories or a person's name.
The phrase "calls up" is a versatile phrasal verb that has multiple meanings and can be used in different contexts. In general, it refers to the act of summoning, recalling, or invoking something or someone from memory, the past, or a database.
One common usage of "calls up" is in the context of communication. It denotes the action of making a phone call or initiating contact, often with the intention of requesting information, assistance, or simply establishing a conversation. For example, a person might say, "I need to call up my friend to ask about our plans for tonight."
Another meaning of "calls up" relates to the act of bringing forth or recollecting something from memory or the past. It can refer to triggering an emotional or mental response by reminding someone of a previous experience, often resulting in nostalgia or reflection. For instance, a song might "call up" memories of one's childhood or a particular event.
Furthermore, "calls up" can also describe the action of accessing or retrieving information from a database or computer system. It means using a command or query to retrieve a specific file, document, or record. For example, in a library, a librarian might "call up" a book from the catalog when a patron requests it.
Therefore, the phrase "calls up" essentially encompasses the concepts of initiating communication, recalling past experiences, and retrieving information from various sources.
The phrase "calls up" is composed of the verb "call" and the preposition "up".
The word "call" has Old English roots, derived from the word "c(e)allian", which referred to the action of speaking loudly or making a loud sound to attract someone's attention. Over time, it evolved to encompass multiple meanings such as summoning, naming, or demanding.
The preposition "up" derives from Old English as well. It originally existed as various forms including "upp" and "uppa", and referred to a higher position or an upward direction. It is often used to indicate movement towards a higher point or place.
When combined, the phrase "call up" came into existence, which typically means to summon someone or something, or to bring something to mind or recall it from memory.