a greater calling

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a greater calling" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a higher purpose or mission that someone feels drawn to pursue, often in a spiritual or moral context. Example: "After years in the corporate world, she realized she had a greater calling to help those in need through humanitarian work."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Maybe that'll be a focus of The Force Awakens, with John Boyega's Finn a former Stormtrooper who appears to defect to the Rebel cause, if the trailers are any indication, perhaps to follow a greater calling.

Vice

But Emmert is a smart man who, if given a greater calling, has the potential to inspire extraordinary change.

The Washington Post

But in light of our beleaguered ecosystem — and given the yearning I sometimes hear from friends in their 20s and 30s in search of a greater calling in life — perhaps the country should revive the idea of a volunteer army dedicated to preserving the environment.

The New York Times

Even though it's f*cking terrifying every single day, the feeling of functioning from my heart and living for a greater calling is something I've come to view as invaluable.

Huffington Post

Being silenced by the church and then ousted from the Jesuits gave him the opportunity to fulfill a greater calling than he originally anticipated when, as a starving prisoner of war during WW II, a slave laborer, at risk of death from a vigilant SS guard, tossed him a potato, making the sign of the cross.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Last week, even though it was sunny and warm, there was a greater call for darker beers and brown liquor.

The New York Times

"She demonstrates a great calling from God.

The New York Times

The Beatles were a great calling card".

The Guardian - Music

This is a great calling for this great organization.

The New York Times

Beating Rafael Nadal at Wimbledon two years ago was a great calling card.

The Guardian - Sport

Sandberg: For us as directors, it's a great calling card.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a greater calling", ensure the context clearly defines what makes the calling 'greater'. This often involves contrasting it with more mundane or self-serving pursuits to highlight its significance.

Common error

Avoid using "a greater calling" in predictable or overly sentimental situations. Overuse can diminish its impact. Instead, opt for more specific and nuanced language to convey purpose and motivation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a greater calling" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It describes a purpose or vocation that is perceived as being of significant importance. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Huffington Post

20%

The New York Times

20%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a greater calling" is a noun phrase used to describe a purpose or vocation that surpasses ordinary concerns, often driven by a sense of duty or destiny. While grammatically correct, as Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is relatively rare. Its register is typically neutral. To enhance clarity, ensure the context explicitly defines the 'greater' aspect of the calling, distinguishing it from mundane pursuits. Overuse in cliché contexts should be avoided for a more impactful and nuanced expression of purpose. The phrase appears predominantly in News & Media, particularly in sources like The New York Times, Huffington Post, and The Washington Post.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a higher purpose

This alternative emphasizes the elevated nature of the purpose, focusing on moral or spiritual superiority.

a nobler cause

This phrase highlights the moral excellence and selflessness of the endeavor.

a more significant mission

This alternative stresses the importance and impact of the undertaking.

a profound vocation

This option emphasizes a strong inner feeling or suitability for a particular career or activity.

a compelling duty

This highlights the sense of obligation and urgency associated with the calling.

a higher duty

Similar to "a compelling duty" but places more emphasis on moral obligation.

a sacred responsibility

This option suggests a deep sense of reverence and commitment to the task.

an ultimate goal

This shifts the focus to the end result, portraying the calling as the most important objective.

a life's work

This emphasizes the dedication and long-term commitment involved in pursuing the calling.

a destiny to fulfill

This alternative implies a preordained path or purpose that must be realized.

FAQs

How can I use "a greater calling" in a sentence?

Use "a greater calling" to describe a purpose or mission that is seen as more important or meaningful than ordinary concerns. For example, "She left her corporate job to pursue "a greater calling" in public service".

What's the difference between "a greater calling" and "a higher purpose"?

While both phrases denote a sense of meaningful direction, "a greater calling" often implies a sense of duty or destiny, whereas "a higher purpose" suggests a more general sense of moral or spiritual aspiration.

What are some synonyms for "a greater calling"?

Alternatives include "a nobler cause", "a more significant mission", or "a profound vocation", each carrying slightly different connotations of purpose and importance.

Is it appropriate to use "a greater calling" in a formal context?

Yes, "a greater calling" can be used in formal contexts to describe a deeply held sense of purpose. However, consider whether a more specific or nuanced phrase might be more effective depending on the audience and subject matter.