# calling

**Pronunciation:** /ˈkɔːlɪŋ/ · KAW-ling

**CEFR level:** C1

**Part of speech:** noun

## Meaning

A strong urge or desire to do a particular job or to fulfill a particular role, especially one that involves helping others.

## Examples

- She felt a deep calling to work with underprivileged children.
- Many people believe nursing is more than a job; it's a calling.
- He left his lucrative career to follow his calling as a musician.

## Synonyms

- vocation — Often implies a strong sense of duty or divine purpose.
- purpose — A general sense of why one is doing something.
- ambition — A strong desire for success or achievement.
- inclination — A tendency or preference towards something.

## Antonyms

- reluctance — Unwillingness or disinclination to do something.
- aversion — A strong dislike or disinclination.

## Common patterns

- calling for — A strong urge or desire for something. — The situation is calling for immediate action.
- a calling to — A strong desire or commitment to do something. — He believed he had a calling to serve the community.

## Collocations

- a strong calling — She felt a strong calling to become a doctor.
- follow one's calling — He decided to follow his calling and open a bakery.
- sense of calling — Many teachers have a deep sense of calling.

Canonical URL: https://anaversity.com/dictionary/english/calling

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