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Swansong Posted 22 years ago
Grammar

Answering machine

Hello.

"He called Mary, but it was the answering machine."
Does this sentence sound natural?
What would you say instead?

Thank you.
  

Top answer

We often use the verb "get" when talking about a telephone call that has been picked up by an answering machine or voice-mail. Examples: I called him three times, but all I got was his answering machine. I've been calling him all morning, but I keep getting his voice-mail.

— Taiwandave

  • We often use the verb "get" when talking about a telephone call that has been picked up by an answering machine or voice-mail.
  • Examples: I called him three times, but all I got was his answering machine.
  • I've been calling him all morning, but I keep getting his voice-mail.
  • He called Mary, but could only get through to her answering machine.
  • I therefore suggest changing your sentence to: He called Mary, but got her answering machine.
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3 Answers
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We often use the verb "get" when talking about a telephone call that has been picked up by an answering machine or voice-mail. Examples:

I called him three times, but all I got was his answering machine.
I've been calling him all morning, but I keep getting his voice-mail.
He called Mary, but could only get through to her answering machine.

I therefore suggest changi
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Dear taiwandave,

Thanks for the reply.

"He called Mary, but got her answering machine."
Wouldn't it be correct to put "he" after "but"?
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