"Call on the carpet" is a formal way of expressing disapproval or dissatisfaction with someone's behavior or performance. To "call someone on the carpet" means to scold, reprimand, or criticize them for doing something wrong.

In short:

• To call someone on the carpet means to scold or reprimand them.
• It is a formal and serious expression of disapproval or dissatisfaction.
• It is usually used by someone with authority or power over the person called on the carpet.
  

What Does "Call on the Carpet" Mean?

"Call on the carpet" is a harsh way of showing displeasure or unhappiness with someone's actions or results. In addition, it means to criticize, scold, or rebuke them for doing something wrong.

Where Does "Call on the Carpet" Come From?

This idiom's origin is unclear, but one theory dates back to the 18th century when a carpet was a thick cloth covering a table where vital business or political discussions occurred. To put something on the carpet meant to bring it under consideration or discussion. Therefore, to call someone on the carpet meant to summon them to the table for questioning or criticism.

10 Examples of "Call on the Carpet" in Sentences

Here are some examples of how to use this idiom in different sentences:

• The manager called him on the carpet for being late three times in a row. Seem like he will be demoted.
• Oh, snap! She was called on the carpet by her professor for plagiarizing her essay.
• Josh felt nervous when he was called on the carpet by his father-in-law.
• They were all hands on deck when called on the carpet by the judge for contempt of court.
• She called him on the carpet for lying to her about his whereabouts. He could be hiding a deep dark secret.
• It's been a trying time in his life as of late. He fears his boss would call him on the carpet for losing an important client.
• She was relieved when her teacher did not call her on the carpet for forgetting her homework.
• Her father called her on the carpet for spending too much money on clothes day in and day out.
• Their coach called them on the carpet for not following his instructions. They need to step up their game.
• She called him on the carpet for breaking her favorite vase, asking him to buy her a new one.

Examples of "Call on the Carpet" in Pop Culture

This idiom is also used in various forms of media and entertainment, such as movies, TV shows, books, and songs.

Here are some examples of how it appears in pop culture:

• In The Devil Wears Prada, Miranda Priestly "calls Andy Sachs on the carpet" for not knowing who she is and what she does.
• In The Office, Michael Scott "calls Jim Halpert on the carpet" for pranking Dwight Schrute.
• In Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, Professor McGonagall "calls Harry Potter and Ron Weasley on the carpet" for flying a car to Hogwarts.
• In The Dandy Warhols's song Call Me On The Carpet, Courtney Taylor-Taylor sings about being "called on the carpet" by his lover.

Other Ways to Say "Call on the Carpet"

Here are some synonyms and related expressions for "call on the carpet":

• Give someone a dressing-down
• Read someone the Riot Act
• Take someone to a task
• Chew someone out
• Rake someone over the coals
• Haul someone over the coals
• Put someone in their place
• Lay into someone
• Tell someone off
• Give someone a piece of one's mind

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Call on the Carpet"

Here are some common questions and answers about this idiom:

• What does "call on the carpet" mean?

"Call on the carpet" is a severe and formal way of expressing disapproval or dissatisfaction with someone's behavior or performance.

• What is the origin of "call on the carpet"?

This idiom's origin is unclear, but one theory dates back to the 18th century when a carpet was a thick cloth covering a table where vital business or political discussions occurred.

• Is "call on the carpet" a polite or rude expression?

It depends on how you use it and who you use it with. Generally speaking, it is not polite, as it implies that you are angry or disappointed with someone and want to confront them. However, if you use it joking or sarcastic, it can be less rude and more humorous.

• Can I use "call on the carpet" with my friends or family?

You can use it with your friends or family if you have a close and informal relationship with them, and they understand your tone and intention. However, if you use it with someone not close to you or who might be offended or hurt by it, it is better to avoid it and use a more respectful or diplomatic expression.

• What is the difference between "call on the carpet" and "call out"?

Both expressions mean criticizing or challenging someone for something they did or said, but they have different nuances. To "call someone on the carpet" is more formal and severe, and it usually implies that you have authority or power over them. "Calling someone out" is more informal and casual, and it usually means that you are equal to them or defending yourself or someone else.

• Can I use "call on the carpet" positively or complimentary?

No, this idiom is always used negatively or critically. If you want to praise or compliment someone for something they did or said, you should use a different expression, such as "give someone a pat on the back" or "give someone credit."

• How can I "call someone on the carpet" without being harsh or rude?

Being transparent, fair, and respectful is the best way to "call someone on the carpet" without being too harsh or rude. You should state the facts and evidence, explain why you are unhappy or dissatisfied, and express your expectations or suggestions. You should also avoid personal attacks, insults, or threats and give the person a chance to respond or defend themselves.

• How can I respond if someone "calls me on the carpet"?

If someone "calls you on the carpet," the best way to respond is to listen calmly, acknowledge your mistake or fault, explain your reasons or motives, and express your regret or remorse. You should also accept any consequences or feedback and promise to improve or change your behavior.

• Is "call on the carpet" an American or British expression?

This idiom is primarily an American expression but is also used in other English-speaking countries, such as Canada and Australia. However, it is not very common in British English, where different words are more popular, such as "carpet" (as a verb), "haul over the coals," or "give a rocket."

• Is "call on the carpet" an old-fashioned or modern expression?

This idiom is not old-fashioned, but it is not modern either. It has been in use since the late 19th century and is still used in formal and professional contexts. However, it is not very trendy or slangy, and younger generations might prefer other expressions that are more current and colloquial.

Final Thoughts About "Call on the Carpet"

To "call someone on the carpet" is an idiom that means to scold or reprimand them for doing something wrong. It is a formal expression of disapproval or dissatisfaction usually used by someone with authority or power over the person being called on the carpet.

In summary:

• It means to scold or reprimand someone.
• It is a formal expression of disapproval or dissatisfaction.
• It is usually used by someone who has authority or power.
• It has some possible origins in the 18th and 19th centuries.