English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Beck and call
Meaning
The idiom "beck and call" is used to describe a situation where someone is easily accessible or responsive, either because they are physically close by or because they have made it easy for others to reach them. It can also be used to imply that someone is not reliable or dependable if they are only available at certain times or under certain conditions.
Usage
- "I'm always just a phone call away if you need anything." - This usage implies that the speaker is easily accessible and responsive via phone.
- "She's not the best person to call if you need an emergency response." - This usage implies that the speaker is not reliable or dependable because they are only available under certain conditions.
- "He's always ready to pick up whenever I call him." - This usage implies that the speaker is physically close by and easily accessible.
- "I find it hard to get ahold of her during work hours, so I only call her when she's off." - This usage implies that the speaker has difficulty reaching the person they are referring to during certain times.
- "He's not very dependable; he'll only answer your calls if you're his friend." - This usage implies that the speaker is not reliable or dependable because they are only accessible to those who meet certain criteria.
Roots and History
The idiom "beck and call" originated in the early 19th century as a way of describing someone who is easily accessible or responsive, either because they are physically close by or because they have made it easy for others to reach them. Over time, the idiom has evolved to include situations where someone is not reliable or dependable, and can be used in various contexts depending on the situation.
Synonyms in English
- At hand
- Within reach
- On call
- Just a phone call away
- Accessible
Synonyms in other languages
- Spanish: "a mano" (at hand)
- French: "à portée" (within reach)
- German: "zu erreichen" (to reach)
- Italian: "a poca distanza" (close by)
- Japanese: "手やけど" (easy to reach)