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Quick question - 'beckoned'

Woollybear

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Is it:

'They beckoned him'

or

'They beckoned to him'

??

No matter which one I put, I keep convincing myself it's the other one.

Is 'to him' implied, if I say 'They beckoned.'

I think simplest is: 'They beckoned.'

'They beckoned to him,' may be correct, but the 'to him is not needed. I think 'They beckoned him' is flat out wrong. (I think I am confusing beckon with summon.)
 
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Sparverius

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My dictionary says that in addition to beckoning "to" someone, it can be used with an object and adverbial of direction (They beckoned him over) and with object and infinitive (They beckoned him to follow). I assume "to him" is implied if you just say "They beckoned" but not sure.
 

Maryn

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It's never simple, is it?

There are two meanings to beckon with subtle differences. One uses to and one does not.

When it means to summon or signal, it can use to (but may not require it): Maryn beckons to the ducks to take the corn. My father beckons me.

When it means to attract, to appear inviting, it does not use to: The nightlife beckons.
 

Woollybear

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I'm going to go with 'They beckoned.'

I feel better knowing at least my confusion may be justified. Thank you!
 

blacbird

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Substitute the near-synonym "called" and see if that fits what you wish to convey.

Then read "The Beckoning Fair One", by Oliver Onions, often considered one of the finest ghost stories ever written.

caw
 

neandermagnon

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This might be something that varies with dialect. I would say "she beckoned him over" or just "she beckoned him".