being called

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "being called" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of someone or something being referred to by a specific name or title. Example: "I don't mind being called a nerd; I take pride in my interests."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Being called a Somalia screwup.

The New Yorker

Reserves are being called up.

The Economist

That particular ideological bluff is being called.

The Guardian - Opinion

It's being called the "border surge".

The New York Times

It is being called the "Dymovsky law".

The New York Times

Word is, she dislikes being called immaterial.

The New York Times

He dislikes being called an etiquette expert.

The New Yorker

Then we heard numbers being called.

The New Yorker

He is even being called a feminist.

The New York Times - Arts

It succeeded in being called racist.

The New York Times

I thought I was being called out.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "being called", ensure the context clearly indicates who is doing the calling or naming and why that name is significant. It emphasizes the passive role of the subject.

Common error

Avoid using "being called" when a more direct active voice construction would be clearer. For example, instead of "The project is being called 'Phoenix'", consider "They are calling the project 'Phoenix'".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "being called" functions as a passive verb phrase, indicating that the subject is receiving an action rather than performing it. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage. For instance, "It's being called the 'me too' election."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "being called" is a versatile passive verb phrase used to indicate the designation or naming of something. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and highlights its prevalence across diverse contexts. It is most frequently found in news and media, science, and formal business communications. When using this phrase, ensure clarity regarding who is assigning the name and the significance of the designation. For more direct communication, consider using active voice constructions. Examples from Ludwig showcase its varied applications, such as describing nicknames, project names, or even social movements. Its neutral register makes it appropriate for a broad audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

named

A simpler, more direct way to indicate a name.

referred to as

Changes the grammatical structure to active voice and uses a more formal term.

known as

Indicates a common or recognized name.

designated as

Suggests a formal assignment of a name or title.

identified as

Used to signify recognition under a specific label.

termed as

Offers a slightly more technical or specific naming.

addressed as

Focuses on the act of using a specific name when speaking to someone.

labeled as

Emphasizes the act of assigning a label or category.

dubbed

Implies an informal or creative naming, often by media.

styled as

Highlights a particular style or presentation of a name.

FAQs

How do I use "being called" in a sentence?

Use "being called" to describe the act of someone or something receiving a particular name or designation. For example: "He disliked "being called a critic"".

What are some alternatives to "being called"?

Alternatives include "referred to as", "known as", or "named", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "being called" or a more active construction?

It depends on the context. "Being called" emphasizes the passive reception of a name or title. An active construction, such as "They call it...", emphasizes the action of naming.

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

"Being called" is a continuous passive form, indicating an ongoing or repeated action, whereas "called" is a simple past participle, indicating a completed action. For example, "He is "being called often"" versus "He was "called yesterday"".