call up crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you'll find comprehensive solutions for the crossword clue "call up crossword clue", organized by letter count, along with detailed explanations to help you understand each possible answer. Let's conquer that puzzle together!
Solutions for "call up crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
DIAL: To make a telephone call to (a person or number). This common answer relates to the act of initiating a phone call, directly linking to one of the primary meanings of "call up."
5 Letters
PHONE: To contact someone by telephone. Similar to 'DIAL', 'PHONE' is a direct and often used answer when 'call up' refers to making a communication using a telephonic device.
6 Letters
SUMMON: To formally order someone to appear, or to gather (courage, strength, etc.). This interpretation of 'call up' is common in legal or official contexts, or when evoking an internal resource.
RECALL: To bring back into one's mind; to remember. Also, to order the return of something defective. In crosswords, 'call up' frequently refers to the act of remembering or accessing past information.
ENLIST: To enroll or be enrolled in the armed services. This meaning of 'call up' directly relates to military conscription or volunteering for service, a classic crossword interpretation.
AROUSE: To awaken, excite, or stimulate. This can refer to 'calling up' emotions or a particular feeling, making it a fitting answer for a less literal interpretation of the clue.
INVOKE: To call on (a deity or spirit) in prayer or as a witness; to appeal to (something or someone) as an authority. Another nuanced meaning of 'call up', often used when appealing to rules or higher powers.
More About "call up crossword clue"
"Call up" is a wonderfully versatile phrasal verb that crossword setters love to exploit due to its multiple meanings. From the mundane act of making a phone call to the more formal act of summoning someone to court, or even the introspective act of recalling a memory, the phrase offers a rich tapestry of interpretations. This versatility is precisely what makes it a challenging yet rewarding clue to solve.
In a crossword puzzle, the precise meaning of "call up" is almost always dictated by the number of letters required and the surrounding context of the clue, or other words already filled into the grid. For instance, a four-letter answer might lead you to 'DIAL', while a six-letter slot could point towards 'SUMMON' or 'RECALL'. Understanding these different nuances is key to cracking not just this clue, but many similar phrasal verb clues in crosswords.
Our aim is to provide not just the answers, but the insights into why certain words fit. By understanding the various facets of "call up," you empower yourself to tackle similar clues in future puzzles, building your crossword-solving prowess one clue at a time.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider all synonyms: For phrasal verbs like "call up," always brainstorm every possible meaning. Does it mean to telephone, to remember, to formally request, or something else entirely?
- Check letter count early: The number of letters in the answer is a critical hint. If you have a 4-letter space, you won't be looking for a 6-letter word like SUMMON. This drastically narrows down possibilities.
- Look for context clues: Is the clue part of a themed puzzle? Are there other words in the puzzle that suggest a particular field (e.g., military, law, communication)? These can provide vital context.
- Think of homonyms and puns: Sometimes, "call up" might be part of a pun or play on words. While less common for direct solutions, it's a good habit to consider if other approaches fail.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common interpretations of 'call up' in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'call up' can refer to telephoning someone, summoning someone to appear, recalling memories, or even enlisting someone for military service. The context of other solved words usually helps narrow down the meaning.
How can I distinguish between 'call up' answers like SUMMON and RECALL?
The key is often the surrounding clue words. If the clue hints at formal requests or gathering, SUMMON is likely. If it's about memory or bringing things back to mind, RECALL fits better. Letter count is also a major distinguishing factor.
Does 'call up' always imply a physical act?
Not necessarily. While it can mean making a phone call or summoning a person, 'call up' can also refer to calling up emotions, spirits, or memories, which are not physical acts. Crossword setters often play on these various nuances.