Phone
/foʊn/
Definitions
2 meaningsA device used to transmit and receive sounds, particularly the human voice, over a distance.
/foʊn/
An instrument for transmitting sound over distances.
Can I use your phone to make a call?
💡 Simply: Imagine you want to talk to your friend who lives far away. A phone lets you hear their voice and have a conversation, even if you're miles apart! Like when you video call Grandma.
👶 For kids: A phone is a toy that you can talk to people with, even if they are far away!
More Examples
The phone rang, and I answered it.
She keeps her phone in her purse.
How It's Used
"I used my phone to call my friend."
"She left her phone at home."
To communicate with someone using a telephone.
/foʊn/
To contact someone by telephone.
I will phone you tonight.
💡 Simply: Imagine you want to talk to someone instantly. Phoning is the act of using a phone to get in touch with them. Like calling your parents to ask if you can get ice cream.
👶 For kids: Phoning means to talk to someone using the phone!
More Examples
She phoned her doctor for an appointment.
He phoned to say he would be late.
How It's Used
"I will phone you later."
"Please phone the customer to confirm their order."
Idioms & expressions
on the phone
Engaged in a telephone conversation.
"She was on the phone for hours."
phone it in
To perform a task without enthusiasm or effort; to do the bare minimum.
"The actor just phoned it in during the last performance."
From the Greek word 'phōnē' (voice, sound). Adopted in the late 19th century with the invention of the telephone.
The word 'phone' quickly replaced 'telephone' in common usage, reflecting the evolution of technology and communication.