a strong calling

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a strong calling" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a deep sense of purpose or a compelling urge to pursue a particular path or vocation. Example: "After years of working in finance, she felt a strong calling to become a teacher and inspire the next generation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

I felt a strong calling to do something.

The New York Times

"If you experience a strong calling, you need to be cognizant of your relative preferences for intrinsic versus extrinsic rewards," Dr Heller added.

Independent

In an interview at his Urban League office in Brooklyn, Mr. Walcott, a tall, slender and courtly man, said he was not sure why community service had been such a strong calling.

The New York Times

There is a strong calling for us all to begin recognizing our unity and working together, instead.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

"If there isn't more private sector expertise brought in, I think you will find a strong call for a so-called blue ribbon commission," Mr. Gordon said.

The New York Times

In "Secrets of the Savanna," they issued a strong call for human population control in Africa.

The New Yorker

The result was a strong call for prevention, and less of a focus on treatment.

The New York Times

Others see a strong call for the overturning of the Electoral College.

The New York Times

Just straight forward, benefit-driven copy with a strong call to action.

The Guardian

It would be nice if he would pair that with a strong call to allow in more foreign workers.

The Economist

"What you're seeing is probably a strong call for why you have mandatory rotation of auditors," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a strong calling" to convey a sense of profound purpose, often linked to career choices, helping others, or spiritual pursuits. For example: "She felt "a strong calling" to become a doctor and serve underserved communities."

Common error

Avoid using "a strong calling" to describe fleeting interests or casual hobbies. The phrase implies a deep-seated, often life-altering, sense of purpose, not just a passing fancy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a strong calling" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes an intense, internal drive or sense of purpose that compels an individual towards a specific path. Ludwig shows this in examples where it signifies dedication to a particular life purpose.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a strong calling" is a noun phrase signifying a profound internal drive toward a particular path or vocation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and evokes a sense of deep purpose. Although its frequency is relatively rare, its usage spans across various contexts like news, business, and science. When writing, ensure that you utilize this phrase to represent meaningful life-altering decisions rather than superficial preferences. Alternatives such as "a powerful sense of purpose" or "a deep sense of vocation" can provide nuanced shades of meaning. Understanding the communicative purpose and appropriate contexts of "a strong calling" is essential for effective and accurate communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a deep sense of vocation

Emphasizes the vocational aspect, implying a suitability or talent for a particular profession or activity.

a powerful sense of purpose

Focuses on the internal feeling of having a significant aim in life, rather than the external demand of a calling.

a profound inner motivation

Stresses the internal driving force behind the pursuit of a goal or activity.

an irresistible inclination

Suggests a natural tendency or leaning that is difficult to resist.

an overwhelming urge

Highlights the intensity and compelling nature of the feeling, presenting it as an impulse.

a burning passion

Focuses on the intense emotional commitment and enthusiasm for a particular cause or activity.

a compelling sense of duty

Highlights the obligation or moral imperative that drives the individual.

a magnetic pull

Uses a metaphor to describe the attracting force towards a specific direction or activity.

a divine inspiration

Suggests that the calling originates from a higher power or spiritual source.

a spiritual awakening

Implies a transformative experience that leads to a new understanding of one's purpose.

FAQs

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

Use "a strong calling" to describe a powerful inner feeling that drives someone towards a particular path or profession. For example: "He abandoned his corporate job after experiencing "a strong calling" to work in environmental conservation."

What's the difference between "a strong urge" and "a strong calling"?

"A strong urge" implies a powerful impulse or desire, while "a strong calling" suggests a deeper sense of purpose and destiny, often related to one's career or life's work. A strong urge might be temporary, but a strong calling is typically more enduring.

What can I say instead of "a strong calling"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "a deep sense of vocation", "a powerful sense of purpose", or "a compelling sense of duty".

Is it appropriate to use "a strong calling" in a professional context?

Yes, especially when discussing career choices or motivations. It conveys a deep commitment to one's profession, provided it aligns with the context and the overall tone of the communication. For example, one might say they felt "a strong calling" to enter public service.