1. To announce something. In this usage, a noun or pronoun can be used between "call" and "out." Once everyone is seated, the host will call out the winners' names. If you've got Bingo, call it out!

2. To shout in an attempt to draw attention to oneself. I called out to my best friend when I saw her walking down the street, but she had headphones on and couldn't hear me. My husband came running when he heard me call out for help.

3. To confront one about one's misdeeds or unpleasant behavior. In this usage, a noun or pronoun can be used between "call" and "out." If your intern keeps coming in late, you need to call her out on it.

4. To challenge one to a fight. In this usage, a noun or pronoun can be used between "call" and "out." I wouldn't call that guy out—I know for a fact that he carries a knife.

5. To request one's aid or presence. In this usage, a noun or pronoun can be used between "call" and "out." When that case had me stumped, I called another detective out to review it with me. The president called out military troops when the situation became unstable.

6. To utilize something, often a quality or skill. In this usage, a noun or pronoun can be used between "call" and "out." The championship game was so intense that I really had to call out my mental toughness just to get through it.

7. To order something by phone. Just tell me what you want for dinner, and I'll call out for it.