When it comes to making a call, do you ever feel like you’re missing out on the latest lingo? Whether you’re dialing up a friend or hopping on a conference, staying in the loop with the trendiest slang for calls is key. Lucky for you, our team has curated a list that will have you speaking the language of today’s phone conversations with confidence and style. Get ready to upgrade your communication game and impress your callers with these fresh terms!
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1. Ring up
When you “ring up” someone, you are calling them on the phone.
- For example, “I’ll ring up my friend and see if they want to go to the movies.”
- A person might say, “I need to ring up the doctor’s office and schedule an appointment.”
- Another might ask, “Can you ring up the pizza place and order a delivery?”
2. Buzz
When you “buzz” someone, you are giving them a call or contacting them.
- For instance, “I’ll give you a buzz tomorrow and we can discuss the project.”
- A person might say, “I need to buzz my mom and let her know I’ll be late.”
- Another might mention, “I’ll buzz the customer service line and see if they can help me with my issue.”
3. Dial
When you “dial” someone, you are calling their phone number using a keypad or touchscreen.
- For example, “I’ll dial my friend’s number and see if they’re available.”
- A person might say, “I need to dial the customer support line and speak to a representative.”
- Another might mention, “I’ll dial the restaurant and make a reservation for tonight.”
4. Hit up
When you “hit up” someone, you are reaching out to them, usually through a phone call or text message.
- For instance, “I’ll hit up my friend and see if they want to grab lunch.”
- A person might say, “I need to hit up my boss and ask for the day off.”
- Another might mention, “I’ll hit up the IT department and see if they can fix my computer.”
5. Give a shout
When you “give a shout” to someone, you are calling them on the phone to talk or catch up.
- For example, “I’ll give my sister a shout and see how she’s doing.”
- A person might say, “I need to give a shout to my friend and make plans for the weekend.”
- Another might mention, “I’ll give a shout to the customer service line and inquire about my order.”
6. Reach out
This phrase is often used to indicate making contact with someone, usually for the purpose of asking for help, advice, or support.
- For example, “If you’re struggling with your mental health, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional.”
- In a work context, someone might say, “I’ll reach out to my colleague and see if they can assist with the project.”
- A friend might offer, “If you ever need to talk, feel free to reach out to me.”
7. Phone
This term simply refers to using a telephone to make a call.
- For instance, “I’ll phone my mom to let her know I’ll be late for dinner.”
- In a conversation about communication methods, someone might say, “Instead of emailing, I prefer to phone the person directly.”
- A parent might tell their child, “Make sure to phone me when you arrive at your friend’s house.”
8. Ring
Using “ring” in the context of a phone call means to receive a call or for the phone to make a ringing sound to indicate an incoming call.
- For example, “My phone rang, and it was my best friend calling.”
- If someone is waiting for an important call, they might say, “I hope my phone rings soon.”
- A person might ask, “Did your phone ring when I called earlier?”
9. Call up
This phrase is another way of saying “make a phone call.”
- For instance, “I’ll call up the restaurant and make a reservation.”
- In a discussion about communication methods, someone might say, “Instead of texting, I prefer to call up my friends.”
- A parent might tell their child, “Call up your grandparents and thank them for the birthday gift.”
10. Contact
This term refers to reaching out or making contact with someone, usually for a specific purpose or reason.
- For example, “If you have any questions, please contact our customer service department.”
- In a work context, someone might say, “I need to contact the client to discuss the project.”
- A friend might ask, “Can you contact Sarah and let her know about the change in plans?”
11. Text
To send a written message to someone using a mobile phone or other electronic device. “Text” is commonly used as a verb in this context.
- For example, “I’ll text you the address of the party.”
- A person might say, “Text me when you’re ready to leave.”
- In a conversation about communication preferences, someone might say, “I prefer to text rather than call.”
12. FaceTime
A brand name for a video calling feature on Apple devices. It allows users to have real-time video conversations with each other.
- For instance, “Let’s FaceTime later so I can show you my new apartment.”
- A person might say, “I FaceTimed with my parents over the holidays.”
- In a discussion about long-distance relationships, someone might mention, “We rely on FaceTime to stay connected.”
13. Ring in
To make a phone call to someone. This phrase is often used to describe initiating a phone conversation.
- For example, “I’ll ring in the morning to confirm our plans.”
- A person might say, “I need to ring my boss and let them know I’ll be late.”
- In a discussion about communication methods, someone might say, “I prefer to ring rather than text.”
14. Drop a line
To make contact with someone, usually by phone or email. This phrase is often used to suggest reaching out to someone for a quick conversation or to catch up.
- For instance, “Drop me a line when you have a chance and let me know how you’re doing.”
- A person might say, “I’ll drop her a line and see if she wants to grab coffee.”
- In a conversation about staying connected, someone might mention, “I try to drop a line to my friends at least once a month.”
15. Holler
To contact someone, usually by phone, often with the intention of having a brief conversation or getting in touch quickly.
- For example, “Holler at me when you’re free and we can make plans.”
- A person might say, “I’ll holler at my friend and see if they want to join us.”
- In a discussion about communication preferences, someone might mention, “I prefer to holler rather than text.”
16. Jingle
This term refers to making a phone call. It is often used in a casual or lighthearted manner.
- For instance, someone might say, “I’ll give you a jingle later to discuss the details.”
- In a conversation about communication, one might mention, “Back in the day, we had to jingle our friends’ landlines to get in touch.”
- A person might ask, “Can you jingle the doctor’s office and see if they have any available appointments?”
17. Dial in
This phrase means to call someone or connect with them using a phone.
- For example, “I’ll dial in to the conference call at 2 PM.”
- A person might say, “I need to dial in to the office to check on some things.”
- In a discussion about remote work, someone might mention, “It’s convenient to be able to dial in to meetings from anywhere.”
18. Give a bell
This slang phrase means to make a phone call or contact someone via phone.
- For instance, “I’ll give you a bell later to discuss the plans.”
- In a conversation about communication, someone might say, “I need to give my mom a bell and check in on her.”
- A person might ask, “Can you give the customer a bell and see if they’re interested in our new product?”
19. Buzz in
This slang term means to call or contact someone, usually by phone.
- For example, “I’ll buzz in my friend and see if they want to grab dinner.”
- A person might say, “I buzzed in the office to let them know I’ll be late.”
- In a discussion about communication, someone might mention, “It’s easy to just buzz in a colleague and ask them a quick question.”
20. Chirp
This slang term means to call or message someone, often with the intention of getting their attention or starting a conversation.
- For instance, “I’ll chirp you later to discuss the details.”
- In a conversation about communication, someone might say, “I chirped my friend to see if they wanted to go to the movies.”
- A person might ask, “Did you chirp the client and see if they’re interested in our proposal?”
21. Hit on the horn
To “hit on the horn” means to make a phone call. It is a slang phrase that is often used to refer to making a quick or urgent call.
- For example, “I need to hit on the horn and let them know I’ll be late.”
- Someone might say, “I’ll hit on the horn and see if they’re available.”
- In a conversation about communication methods, a person might ask, “Do you prefer texting or hitting on the horn?”
22. Call in
To “call in” means to contact someone, usually by phone. It can be used in various contexts, such as calling in sick or calling in a favor.
- For instance, “I need to call in and make a reservation.”
- A person might say, “I’ll call in and let them know I won’t be able to attend.”
- In a discussion about work, someone might mention, “I had to call in and report the issue.”
23. Give a tinkle
To “give a tinkle” means to make a phone call. It is a casual slang phrase often used to refer to a quick or informal call.
- For example, “I’ll give him a tinkle and see if he’s available.”
- Someone might say, “Give me a tinkle when you’re ready to chat.”
- In a conversation about staying in touch, a person might ask, “Do you prefer giving a tinkle or sending a text?”
24. Get on the horn
To “get on the horn” means to make a phone call. It is a slang phrase that implies taking action or reaching out to someone.
- For instance, “I’ll get on the horn and see if I can find out more information.”
- A person might say, “I got on the horn and spoke to the manager about the issue.”
- In a discussion about communication methods, someone might ask, “Do you prefer getting on the horn or sending an email?”
25. Give a jingle
To “give a jingle” means to make a phone call. It is a casual slang phrase often used to refer to reaching out or contacting someone.
- For example, “I’ll give her a jingle and see if she wants to grab coffee.”
- Someone might say, “Give me a jingle when you’re free.”
- In a conversation about staying connected, a person might ask, “Do you prefer giving a jingle or sending a message?”
26. Drop a dime
This phrase originated from the payphone era when making a call required a dime. It means to make a phone call, usually to report or inform someone.
- For example, “I need to drop a dime and let them know the meeting is cancelled.”
- In a crime context, someone might say, “He dropped a dime on his accomplices and turned them into the police.”
- A friend might ask, “Can you drop a dime and let me know if the party is still happening?”
27. Give a ring
This phrase is a casual way of saying “call someone.” It implies using a telephone to communicate with someone.
- For instance, “I’ll give you a ring when I arrive at the airport.”
- When making plans, someone might say, “Give me a ring later to confirm the details.”
- A parent might tell their child, “If you need anything, don’t hesitate to give me a ring.”
28. Shoot a text
This slang phrase means to send a text message to someone. It implies using a mobile phone to communicate through texting.
- For example, “I’ll shoot you a text when I’m ready to meet up.”
- When catching up with a friend, someone might say, “Shoot me a text and let me know how you’ve been.”
- A person might ask, “Can you shoot me a text with your address so I know where to go?”
29. Drop a call
This phrase refers to accidentally ending a phone call prematurely, usually due to a bad signal or technical issue.
- For instance, “I was in the middle of an important conversation, but my phone dropped the call.”
- During a frustrating call, someone might say, “Ugh, I hate it when my phone drops calls.”
- A person might ask, “Did you drop the call or did the other person hang up?”
30. Ring a bell
This phrase means something sounds familiar or reminds you of something or someone.
- For example, “Her name rings a bell, but I can’t remember where I know her from.”
- When trying to jog someone’s memory, you might say, “Does this photo ring a bell? It was taken at the party last year.”
- A person might ask, “This song sounds familiar. Does it ring a bell?”
31. Phone in
This phrase means to make a phone call. It can be used to refer to any type of phone call, whether it’s a personal call or a business call.
- For example, “I need to phone in to confirm my appointment.”
- A person might say, “I’ll phone in the order for pizza.”
- In a work setting, someone might say, “I’ll phone in the report to my manager.”
32. Buzz up
This slang phrase means to use an intercom or buzzer to call someone. It’s often used in apartment buildings or office settings where there is a buzzer system for visitors or deliveries.
- For instance, “Just buzz up to my apartment when you arrive.”
- A person might say, “I’ll buzz up to your office when I get there.”
- In a conversation about security systems, someone might ask, “Do you have to buzz up to enter the building?”
33. Give a buzz
This slang phrase means to make a phone call to someone. It’s a casual way of saying “call” and is often used in informal conversations.
- For example, “I’ll give you a buzz later to see if you’re free.”
- A person might say, “I’ll give my mom a buzz to let her know I arrived safely.”
- In a discussion about communication, someone might say, “I prefer to give a buzz instead of sending a text.”
34. Hit the line
This phrase means to make a phone call. It’s a more informal way of saying “call” and is often used in casual conversations.
- For instance, “I’ll hit the line and let you know when I’m on my way.”
- A person might say, “I need to hit the line and order takeout for dinner.”
- In a discussion about staying in touch, someone might say, “I hit the line to catch up with my old friends.”
35. Ring the phone
This phrase means to make a phone call. It’s a playful and informal way of saying “call” and is often used in lighthearted conversations.
- For example, “I’ll ring the phone and see if they’re available.”
- A person might say, “I rang the phone to invite them to the party.”
- In a conversation about communication, someone might ask, “Did you ring the phone to let them know about the change in plans?”
36. Hit the digits
This phrase means to dial a phone number and make a call. It is often used in informal situations.
- For example, if someone asks, “Can you hit the digits and order pizza?” they are asking you to call and place the order.
- In a text message, someone might say, “I’ll hit the digits and let you know when I’m on my way.”
- If you’re trying to set up a meeting, you can say, “Hit my digits and we’ll figure out the details.”
37. Give a call
This phrase means to make a phone call. It is a simple and direct way to ask someone to contact you or for you to contact them.
- For instance, if someone says, “Give me a call when you’re free,” they want you to contact them at your convenience.
- If you need to reach out to a friend, you can say, “I’ll give you a call later to catch up.”
- When making plans, you might tell someone, “Give me a call tomorrow and we can finalize the details.”
38. Hit the blower
This slang term refers to making a phone call. “Blower” is a British term for a telephone.
- For example, if someone says, “I need to hit the blower and check in with my boss,” they mean they need to call their boss.
- If you’re trying to reach someone, you can say, “Hit the blower and let me know if you’re coming.”
- When making a business call, you might say, “I’ll hit the blower and discuss the details with the client.”
39. Shoot a call
This phrase means to make a phone call. It is a more casual and informal way of saying “give a call” or “make a call”.
- For instance, if someone says, “Shoot me a call when you’re free,” they want you to contact them at your convenience.
- If you need to reach out to a friend, you can say, “I’ll shoot you a call later to catch up.”
- When making plans, you might tell someone, “Shoot me a call tomorrow and we can finalize the details.”
40. Ring the line
This phrase means to make a phone call. It is an informal way of asking someone to contact you or for you to contact them.
- For example, if someone says, “Ring the line when you’re ready,” they want you to call them when you’re prepared.
- If you need to reach out to a friend, you can say, “I’ll ring the line later to see if you’re available.”
- When making plans, you might tell someone, “Ring the line tomorrow and we can discuss the itinerary.”
41. Drop a buzz
This slang phrase means to make a phone call. It is often used in a casual or informal context.
- For example, “I’ll drop a buzz to my friend and see if they want to hang out.”
- A person might say, “I need to drop a buzz to the office and let them know I’ll be late.”
- Someone might ask, “Can you drop a buzz to the restaurant and see if they take reservations?”
42. Hit the call button
This slang phrase refers to pressing the call button on a phone to initiate a phone call. It is a straightforward way of expressing the action.
- For instance, “I’ll hit the call button and see if they answer.”
- A person might say, “I hit the call button, but it went straight to voicemail.”
- Someone might ask, “Did you hit the call button or the video call button?”
43. Dial the digits
This slang phrase means to enter the phone number on a phone keypad and make a phone call. It emphasizes the action of physically dialing the numbers.
- For example, “I’ll dial the digits and see if they pick up.”
- A person might say, “I dialed the digits, but I got a wrong number.”
- Someone might ask, “Can you dial the digits and let me know what they say?”
44. Give a yell
This slang phrase means to make a phone call. It is a more expressive way of referring to the action.
- For instance, “I’ll give a yell and see if they’re available.”
- A person might say, “I gave a yell, but they didn’t answer.”
- Someone might ask, “Can you give a yell to the customer service hotline and see if they can help?”
45. Hit the handset
This slang phrase refers to picking up the handset of a phone to initiate a phone call. It emphasizes the physical action of lifting the handset.
- For example, “I’ll hit the handset and see if they’re free.”
- A person might say, “I hit the handset, but there was no dial tone.”
- Someone might ask, “Did you hit the handset or use the speakerphone?”
46. Shoot the breeze
This phrase means to have a relaxed or informal conversation with someone. It implies a lighthearted and casual exchange of words.
- For example, “Let’s grab a coffee and shoot the breeze.”
- Two friends might say, “We haven’t caught up in a while. Let’s meet up and shoot the breeze.”
- In a social setting, someone might ask, “Mind if I join you guys and shoot the breeze?”
47. Hit on
To “hit on” someone means to flirt with them or show romantic interest in a direct or sometimes aggressive manner. It can involve complimenting, making advances, or expressing attraction.
- For instance, “He’s always hitting on girls at the bar.”
- Someone might say, “I can’t believe he hit on me right after we met.”
- In a conversation about dating, a person might mention, “Some people don’t know how to properly hit on someone without making them uncomfortable.”
48. Reach
This term refers to making contact with someone, usually through a phone call or text message. It implies the act of reaching out and establishing communication.
- For example, “I’ll reach out to her to discuss the details.”
- A person might say, “I’ve been trying to reach you all day.”
- In a business context, someone might ask, “Could you please reach out to the client and schedule a meeting?”
49. Phone up
To “phone up” means to make a phone call to someone. It is a more informal way of saying “call” and implies using a telephone to establish communication.
- For instance, “I’ll phone up my friend to see if they’re free.”
- Someone might say, “I need to phone up my mom and let her know I’ll be late.”
- In a conversation about communication, a person might mention, “I prefer texting over phoning up people.”
50. Dial back
This phrase means to reduce or lessen a particular action or behavior. It can be used in the context of phone calls to indicate reducing the frequency or intensity of communication.
- For example, “I think we need to dial back our calls and give each other some space.”
- Two friends might say, “Let’s dial back the constant texting and hang out in person.”
- In a discussion about work-life balance, someone might mention, “I’ve been working long hours, so I need to dial back and take care of my well-being.”
51. Buzz back
To return a phone call or respond to a missed call.
- For example, “I missed your call earlier, but I’ll buzz back as soon as I can.”
- If someone asks, “Can you buzz me back later?” they are requesting a return call.
- A voicemail might say, “Please buzz me back when you get this message.”
52. Hit back
To respond to a missed call or message.
- For instance, “I saw that you called earlier. I’ll hit you back as soon as I’m free.”
- If someone texts, “Can you hit me back when you have a moment?” they are asking for a call or message in return.
- A person might leave a note saying, “Sorry I missed your call. I’ll hit you back when I’m available.”
53. Reach out to
To make contact with someone, typically through a phone call or message.
- For example, “I’ll reach out to you tomorrow to discuss the details.”
- If someone says, “Feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions,” they are inviting communication.
- A person might ask, “Can you reach out to your contact and get more information?”
54. Ring back
To call someone back after missing their call or receiving their missed call.
- For instance, “I missed your call, but I’ll ring you back in a few minutes.”
- If someone says, “Ring me back when you’re available,” they are requesting a return call.
- A voicemail might say, “Please ring me back as soon as you can.”
55. Call back
To return a phone call or respond to a missed call.
- For example, “I’ll call you back as soon as I finish this task.”
- If someone asks, “Can you call me back later?” they are requesting a return call.
- A person might leave a message saying, “Please call me back at your earliest convenience.”
56. Ring the digits
This slang phrase means to make a phone call or dial someone’s number. It emphasizes the action of physically pressing the buttons on a phone to initiate a call.
- For example, “I need to ring the digits and ask her out on a date.”
- A teenager might say, “I’ll ring the digits and let you know what time we’re meeting up.”
- In a conversation about contacting someone, someone might say, “Just ring the digits and see if they’re available.”
57. Tap
This slang term means to call someone. It implies a quick and informal phone call.
- For instance, “I’ll tap you later to discuss the details.”
- A friend might say, “Tap me when you’re ready to leave.”
- In a text message, someone might write, “Tap me when you’re free to talk.”
58. Ping
This slang word can refer to either sending a message or making a call. It conveys the idea of reaching out to someone electronically or through a phone call.
- For example, “I’ll ping you later to check if you’re available.”
- A coworker might say, “Ping me if you need any help.”
- In a conversation about staying in touch, someone might say, “Let’s ping each other regularly to catch up.”
59. Face time
This term refers to making a video call, often using the FaceTime app on Apple devices. It implies seeing the other person’s face while communicating.
- For instance, “Let’s have some face time and discuss the project.”
- A family member might say, “I miss you. Can we have some face time tonight?”
- In a conversation about long-distance relationships, someone might say, “Face time is essential for staying connected.”
60. Ringtone
This slang term refers to the sound or melody that plays when someone calls you. It can be customized to reflect the individual’s preference.
- For example, “I love the ringtone on my phone. It’s so catchy.”
- A friend might say, “I changed my ringtone to my favorite song.”
- In a conversation about personalizing smartphones, someone might say, “I set my ringtone to a funny sound effect.”
61. Chime in
To chime in means to join or participate in a discussion or conversation. It is often used when someone wants to add their opinion or input.
- For example, during a team meeting, a colleague might say, “Feel free to chime in if you have any ideas.”
- In an online forum, a user might comment, “I just wanted to chime in and say that I agree with the previous comment.”
- During a group discussion, someone might say, “Let’s go around the room and have everyone chime in with their thoughts.”
62. Warble
Warble is a slang term used to describe singing or speaking with a melodious tone. It can also refer to a unique or distinctive vocal style.
- For instance, a music critic might describe a singer as “warbling with soulful emotion.”
- In a talent show, a judge might comment, “You have a beautiful warble in your voice.”
- A friend might compliment a singer by saying, “I love how you warble when you hit those high notes.”