1
general::
Phrase(s): call someone or something out
to request the services of someone or a group. (See also call someone up; call someone out.) • Things got bad enough that the governor called the militia out. • The governor called out the militia., Phrase(s): call something out
1. to draw on something, such as a particular quality or talent. • It’s times like these that call the best out in us. • These times call out our best effort. 2. to shout out something. • Who called the warning out? • You should call out a warning to those behind you on the trail., Phrase(s): call someone out
to challenge someone to a fight. • Wilbur wanted to call him out, but thought better of it. • Why did you call out that guy? He used to be a prizefighter!, Phrase(s): call out (to someone)
to speak loudly to get someone’s attention. • Mike called out to Tom that there was a telephone call for him. • I heard someone call out, but I could see no one.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs
2
general::
1. Summon into action or service, as in The governor called out the militia. [Mid-1400s] 2. Challenge to a fight, as in To avenge the insult, Arthur called him out. This term originated with dueling and is dying out. [Early 1800s]
American Heritage Idioms