Definition of call for

The phrase "call for" originated in the mid-19th century in English. Its origins can be traced back to the verb "call," which has been used since Old English times to mean "summon" or "make a request." In its early usage, "call for" meant "demand" or "require." The phrase was typically used in a financial context, such as "this investment calls for a large initial outlay" or "the project calls for additional funding." Over time, "call for" has come to be used in a more general sense to indicate a need or request for something. For example, "this situation calls for action" means that the circumstances require a response or reaction. The use of "call for" in its modern context is a result of the rise of mass media and the need to communicate effectively in the face of information overload. It has become a common way of describing events or situations that require a response, such as "this issue calls for a public response" or "the crisis calls for immediate action." In summary, the origin of the phrase "call for" can be traced back to the verb "call" and its meaning of "summon" or "request." Over time, it has come to be used as a more general term to indicate a need or requirement for something.