telephoned

word · lemma: telephone

/ˈtɛɫəˌfoʊnd/
/tˈɛlɪfˌəʊnd/

Definition

The past tense of 'telephone'; to have contacted someone by phone.

Usage & Nuances

'Telephoned' is formal and not common in everyday conversation—'called' or 'called on the phone' is more usual. Most often used in written or formal English, or in historic contexts. Do not use 'telephoned' with 'to' (incorrect: 'I telephoned to him'). Correct pattern: 'I telephoned her' or 'She telephoned the office.'

Example Sentences

She telephoned her mother last night.

basic

John telephoned the office to confirm the meeting.

basic

I telephoned my friend, but she was not home.

basic

My boss telephoned me unexpectedly during dinner.

natural

They telephoned to let us know the train was delayed.

natural

Have you ever telephoned someone you hadn't spoken to in years?

natural