are being called

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are being called" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in passive constructions to indicate that something is currently being referred to or named by someone. Example: "The new policies are being called into question by several experts in the field."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Reserves are being called up.

The Economist

Now bets are being called in.

The New York Times - Arts

"This is what we are being called on to do".

The New York Times

It is understood that more reserves are being called up.

The Guardian

But it's the plays that are being called.

The Guardian - Sport

Reserve units, including some in Kansas, are being called up.

The New York Times

Now, it is McCain strategists who are being called geniuses.

The New York Times

The election results are being called stunning, with good reason.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Our 'militarized tactics,' as they are being called, saved lives".

The Guardian

These days men are being called many things, especially in certain circles of politics and publishing.

The New York Times

The dead are being called "terrorists", the word the Israelis use of their enemies.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are being called" in passive constructions when you want to emphasize the action being performed on the subject rather than the actor performing the action. For example: "The new regulations are being called into question by industry experts."

Common error

Be cautious not to unintentionally use active voice when passive voice is intended. Ensure the sentence structure reflects that the subject is receiving the action, not performing it. A common error is writing "They are calling the new regulations" when you mean "The new regulations are being called into question".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are being called" functions as a passive voice verb phrase. It indicates that the subject of the sentence is receiving the action, rather than performing it. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Science

14%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "are being called" is a versatile passive verb construction used to describe something currently being referred to or named in a specific way. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and widely applicable in various contexts. Its neutral register makes it appropriate for both formal and informal writing. Common contexts include news and media, science and business communications. To ensure correct usage, remember that "are being called" emphasizes the action being performed on the subject. Using alternatives such as "are referred to as" can also add nuance and variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are referred to as

Focuses on how something is commonly referenced or known.

are known as

Highlights the well-established name or identity of something.

are getting named

Focuses on the act of naming, emphasizing the result of the naming process.

are labeled as

Emphasizes the act of officially assigning a label to something.

are getting designated

Highlights the act of assigning a specific designation or label.

are getting termed

Emphasizes the use of a particular term or expression to describe something.

are classified as

Focuses on the categorization or grouping of something under a specific classification.

are styled as

Implies a specific stylistic or presentational choice in naming.

are considered to be

Highlights a particular perception or evaluation of something.

are deemed to be

Emphasizes a formal judgment or assessment of something.

FAQs

How can I use "are being called" in a sentence?

Use "are being called" in passive voice constructions, where the subject receives the action. For example: "The election results "are being called stunning" by analysts." This structure emphasizes the action (being called) rather than who is performing it.

What phrases are similar to "are being called"?

Similar phrases include "are referred to as", "are known as", or "are getting named". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "are being called" formal or informal?

"Are being called" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its neutrality makes it appropriate for a wide range of writing, from academic papers to news articles. The register of the sources confirms this fact.

What's the difference between "are being called" and "are called"?

"Are called" describes a general or habitual state. For example, "These flowers are called roses." "Are being called" describes an action that is currently happening or a state that is in progress. For example, "The new policies "are being called into question" by experts".