The idiom "make the call" means to make a decision, especially a final or decisive one. It is often used when some urgency, pressure, or uncertainty is involved.

In short:

• It signifies taking action to reach a decision, particularly one that is conclusive or pivotal.

What Does "Make the Call" Mean?

The idiom "make the call" has two primary meanings:

• To make a decision, especially a final or decisive one. This meaning implies that the person who makes the call has the authority, power, or right to do so. For example, if a boss says to an employee, "Make the call on this project," the employee can decide how to proceed.
• To take responsibility for a decision or an action. This means the person who makes the call is willing to accept their choice's consequences, risks, or benefits. For example, if a friend says to another friend, "I'll make the call on this one," the friend will take charge of the situation and deal with whatever happens.

Where Does "Make the Call" Come From?

The origin of the idiom "make the call" is not very clear, but it may have something to do with sports. In some sports, such as baseball, football, or basketball, referees or umpires must "make calls" on certain plays or situations. For example, they have to decide whether a ball is fair or foul, whether a player is safe or out, whether a foul has been committed, etc. These calls can be crucial and affect the outcome of the game. Therefore, "making the call" can mean making a critical decision in a sports context.

Historical Example

"Did that demonstrate the fact? For his own part he should suppose that the mere presentation made the call? Why should not the patron make the call? He knew there was no authority or dictum by any text writer against him in what he was saying."

- Tracts of the times: original and selected, 1839

10 Examples of "Make the Call" in Sentences

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

• Regarding budget allocation, you'll need to make the call.
• Should we invest in stocks or bonds? It's time to make the call.
• I am torn between the two job offers; I must make the call soon.
• I don't know which dress to wear for the party. You make the call!
• The coach has to make the call on which players will start the game.
• The doctor had to make the call on whether to operate on the patient or not.
• I trust your judgment, so go ahead and make the call on this critical decision.
• They were waiting for her to make the call on where they should go out to dinner.
• It's your turn to make the call on where we should have dinner for the evening out.
• Make the call on whether or not we should postpone the meeting due to the weather.

Examples of "Make the Call" in Pop Culture

Here are some examples of how this idiom has been used in various forms of pop culture:

• In the song "Make The Call" by Camo & Krooked feat. TC (2011), the lyrics express the dilemma and frustration of the man, who feels he has to let go of one of them but does not want to walk away.
• "Make the Call" (2016) is a short film written and directed by Lucy Catharine Haskill. It revolves around a man who grapples with the challenge of initiating the initial action, and when his sisters intervene to assist, the situation takes an amusing turn.
• "Make the Call" by Jay Varton is an electronic song released in 2019 from the Epidemic Sound Library. The song is a fast-paced and energetic track that features synth melodies, pulsing beats, and distorted vocals. The music is suitable for scenes of action, suspense, or thrill.

Synonyms: Other/Different Ways to Say "Make the Call"

Here are some synonyms for this idiom:

• Make a choice
• Make a judgment
• Make a decision
• Make a determination
• Make a resolution
• Make a selection
• Make a verdict

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Make the Call"

Here are some frequently asked questions about this idiom:

• What does "make the call" mean?

The idiom "make the call" means to make a decision, especially a final or decisive one. It is often used when some urgency, pressure, or uncertainty is involved.

• What is the origin of the phrase "make the call"?

The origin of the idiom "make the call" is not very clear, but it may have something to do with sports. In some sports, such as baseball, football, or basketball, referees or umpires must "make calls" on certain plays or situations.

• Is "make the call" a formal or informal expression?

The idiom "make the call" is an informal expression that is more common in spoken than written language. It is not appropriate for formal or academic contexts.

• What is the opposite of "make the call"?
  

The opposite of "make the call" is "avoid making the call" or "postpone making the call." These expressions mean to delay or evade making a decision or taking responsibility.

• What is an example of "making a bad call"?

An example of "making a bad call" is making a wrong or harmful decision that leads to negative consequences or regrets. For example, "He made a bad call when he cheated on his wife."

• What is an example of "making a good call"?

An example of "making a good call" is making a right or beneficial decision that leads to positive outcomes or satisfaction. For example, "She made a good call when she invested in that company."

• Can "make the call" be used in everyday conversations?

Yes, "make the call" is a versatile idiom and can be used in everyday conversations to encourage someone to make a decision or to emphasize the importance of taking action.

• Is "make the call" always used positively?

No, "make the call" can be used in both positive and negative contexts. It depends on the situation and the nature of the decision being made.

• Can "make the call" be used in professional settings like business or management?

Yes, "make the call" is frequently used in professional settings to urge individuals to make important decisions or take a leadership role in making choices that impact the organization.

• Are there cultural variations in the use of this idiom?

While the basic meaning of "make the call" is consistent, cultural variations and idiomatic expressions related to decision-making may exist in different regions and languages. However, the concept of making decisions is universal.

Final Thoughts About "Make the Call"

The idiom "make the call" is a familiar and informal idiom with different meanings depending on the context and situation.

Here are some key points to remember about this idiom:

• It can mean to make a decision, especially a final or decisive one.
• It can also mean taking responsibility for a decision or an action.
• It is often used when some urgency, pressure, or uncertainty is involved.
• It may have originated from sports, gambling, or communication contexts.
• It has been used in various forms of popular culture, such as movies, TV shows, songs, books, etc.
• It has some synonyms that have similar meanings.