at one's beck and call

/at wˈɒnz bˈɛk and kˈɔːl/

/æt wˈʌnz bˈɛk ænd kˈɔːl/

[phrase]

at one's beck and call

[PHRASE]

at someone's complete service

What is the origin of the idiom "at one's beck and call" and when to use it?

The idiom "at one's beck and call" originated in the past when social roles and hierarchies were more pronounced. It means that someone is always ready and willing to respond to the requests or commands of another person. It implies a strong level of obedience and availability, indicating that the person being referred to is constantly at the service and disposal of someone else. The phrase emphasizes the power dynamic between the two individuals, with one having the authority to summon and expect immediate compliance from the other. It is often employed to depict relationships with power dynamics, such as employer-employee relationships or situations involving personal assistants or service staff.

Examples

1. There's no point not to hire McKinsey if you can afford it because it's a SWAT team of analysts that is at your beck and call.

2. I was tired of being at her beck and call all day long.

3. I'm not at your beck and call, you know.

4. I'm not at your beck and call!