Call vs. Summon

Attribute	Call	Summon
Definition	To communicate or contact someone by phone	To bring forth or order someone or something to appear
Usage	Commonly used in the context of making a phone call	Commonly used in the context of summoning a person or entity
Formality	Can be used in both formal and informal situations	Often used in formal or authoritative situations
Origin	Derived from Old Norse kalla	Derived from Latin summonere
Meaning	To request someone's presence or attention	To order someone to appear or come to a place

Introduction

Call and summon are two words that are often used interchangeably, but they actually have distinct meanings and connotations. In this article, we will explore the attributes of call and summon, highlighting their differences and similarities.

Definition

Call typically refers to the act of speaking to someone or contacting them by phone. It can also mean to shout or cry out. On the other hand, summon is more formal and often involves a request for someone to appear or come to a specific place. While both words involve communication, call is more casual and everyday, while summon is more official and authoritative.

Usage

Call is a versatile word that can be used in a variety of contexts. For example, you can call a friend to chat, call a meeting to order, or call out someone's name. Summon, on the other hand, is typically used in legal or ceremonial settings. You might summon a witness to court or summon a spirit during a ritual. The usage of summon implies a sense of urgency or importance.

Etymology

The word call comes from the Old Norse word kalla, which means to cry out. It has been used in English for centuries and has evolved to encompass a wide range of meanings. Summon, on the other hand, comes from the Latin word summonere, which means to remind secretly. The word summon has a more formal and serious connotation, reflecting its origins in legal and religious contexts.

Connotation

Call is often associated with friendliness and informality. When you call someone, it is usually to chat or make plans. On the other hand, summon has a more serious and authoritative connotation. When you summon someone, it is usually to convey a sense of urgency or importance. The connotations of call and summon can influence how they are perceived in different contexts.

Examples

Here are some examples to illustrate the differences between call and summon:

• She called her friend to catch up on the latest gossip.
• The teacher called the students to attention before starting the lesson.
• The king summoned his advisors to discuss the upcoming battle.
• The judge summoned the witness to testify in court.

Conclusion

In conclusion, call and summon are two words that have distinct meanings and connotations. While call is more casual and everyday, summon is more formal and authoritative. Understanding the differences between call and summon can help you use them more effectively in your communication. Whether you are calling a friend or summoning a spirit, choosing the right word can make a big difference in how your message is received.