Definition

Noun: A conversation over the telephone. A telephone conversation is a spoken exchange between two or more people conducted using the telephone system. It refers to the complete interaction, from greeting to conclusion, that occurs during a phone call.

Usage

This noun phrase is used to describe the act or instance of talking with someone on the phone. It focuses on the dialogue itself rather than the technology or the act of placing the call. - It is typically used with verbs like have, hold, overhear, or record. - It can be modified by adjectives describing the nature of the talk (e.g., a brief telephone conversation, a confidential telephone conversation).

Examples

• I had a telephone conversation with the manager yesterday.
• Their telephone conversation was interrupted by a poor connection.
• Please make a note of any important points from your telephone conversation.

Advanced Usage

• To be engaged in a telephone conversation: To be actively talking on the phone.
  • He was engaged in a telephone conversation and couldn't answer the door.
• The substance/content of a telephone conversation: What was specifically discussed during the call.
  • The report summarized the substance of the telephone conversation.

Variants and Related Words

• Phone call (n): Often used more generally to refer to the act of calling or the instance of a call, which includes the conversation. (e.g., ).
• Call (n): A common, shorter synonym for a telephone conversation. (e.g., ).
• Teleconference (n): A telephone conversation involving multiple participants at different locations.

Synonyms

• Phone call
• Call
• Telephone call

Related Phrases

• To be on the phone: To be using the telephone, often implying a conversation is in progress.
  • She's on the phone with a client.
• To have a word with someone (on the phone): To have a short conversation.
  • I need to have a word with you on the phone about the meeting.

Noun

1. a conversation over the telephone