Overview
Reporting phone calls uses structures like: She called to say (that)…, He left a message saying…, They phoned to ask whether…, She rang to confirm that…. These structures blend reporting verbs with purpose infinitives (to say, to confirm) or -ing clauses (saying, asking).
Reporting Phone Calls
- Who called?John called and said he would be late.
- What was said?She told me the meeting had been rescheduled.
- QuestionsHe asked if I had received his email.
- RequestsShe asked me to call back before noon.
Useful Phone Reporting Structures
- He rang to sayHe rang to say he'd be delayed.
- She called askingShe called asking about the order.
- They left a messageThey left a message saying the parcel had arrived.
- He confirmedHe confirmed the appointment for 3 p.m.
Reporting a Phone Call in Writing
- When writing up a phone call report:
- WhoState who called and who was called.
- WhatReport the key information exchanged.
- ActionNote any requests, warnings, or agreements made.
When to use
Phone messages
Tom called and asked you to call him back.
Email follow-up
She called to confirm the order had been placed.
Business notes
The client rang asking about the delivery date.
Medical
The nurse called to say the appointment was confirmed.