Is it “beck and call,” “beckon call,” or “back and call”—or something else entirely?

“Beck and call” vs. “beckon call”

The only correct way to spell this phrase is “beck and call.” Typically, people use the phrase “beck and call” as a part of the idiom “to be at someone’s beck and call.” Although “beckon” is a real word, it can’t be used in this phrase; “beckon call” is an example of an eggcorn, a slightly misunderstood version of a common phrase. Similar to homophones, eggcorns like “beck and call” and “beckon call” are usually misused because they sound the same when spoken out loud.

When used in conversation, people might not notice if you’re actually saying, “beckon call.” However, this spelling of the phrase is not correct and should never be used in your writing. The correct phrase contains two nouns joined together with the article “and,” whereas “beckon” is a verb and “call” can be used as a verb or noun. Because nothing connects these two words together, the phrase is grammatically incorrect and has no meaning.

“Beck and call” meaning

The word “beck” is a shortened form of the word “beckon,” which means to summon or signal, typically with a wave or nod. To be at someone’s “beck and call” means to be ready to follow their orders or be at their service. People often use the phrase to indicate someone’s demands are unreasonable or entitled.

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How to use “beck and call” correctly

As a phrase, “beck and call” contains two nouns, but the phrase can’t be used as a subject noun within a sentence. Subject nouns usually appear at the beginning of a sentence and can be identified as the “who.” Phrases like “beck and call” function as object nouns and require subject nouns to be grammatically correct. As long as you remember that rule, you’ll be able to use the phrase to spice up your sentences.

• “Celebrities are fortunate enough to have people at their beck and call.”
• “Harry’s assistant was tired of being at his beck and call day and night.”
• “I refuse to be at your beck and call.”

Even if you don’t have a grammar expert at your beck and call, brushing up on your spelling and grammar skills can help improve your writing. If you’re not sure, try using a grammar or spell check as you write.