call it

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "call it" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to mean to refer to something, as in "Let's call it a day" or "Let's call it quits". It can also be used to mean to name something, as in "Let's call this meeting to order".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We call it AHERF.

Procedia Computer Science

Call it principle, call it intransigence — whatever.

The New Yorker

Call it satori, call it wishful thinking.

The New York Times

Call it Obamacare, call it reform.

The Economist

We call it disjunct sampling.

Journal of Wind Engineering and Industrial Aerodynamics

We call it "cyclic resistometry".

Electrochimica Acta

We call it a strategy.

Journal of Functional Analysis

"I call it intermission".

The New York Times

I'll call it human".

The New Yorker

Others call it bragging.

The New York Times

Call it either one.

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "call it" to introduce a simpler or more familiar term for something complex or technical. For example, "The process is technically 'quantum entanglement', but let's call it spooky action at a distance."

Common error

Avoid using "call it" in highly formal or academic writing where precise terminology is crucial. Opt for more specific and technical terms to maintain clarity and professionalism.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "call it" functions primarily as a naming convention or a term introduction. It is employed to assign a label or descriptor to something, often simplifying complex concepts or suggesting a specific perspective. As seen in Ludwig's examples, it's used across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "call it" is a versatile tool used to assign names, simplify complex terms, or offer alternative perspectives. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and frequently used across various contexts, particularly in news media and scientific writing. While generally neutral in register, its formality can shift depending on the surrounding language. Consider using related phrases like "name it" or "refer to it as" for nuanced expression, and avoid using "call it" in contexts requiring highly precise terminology. By following these guidelines, you can effectively use "call it" to enhance clarity and accessibility in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

name it

This alternative is a more direct and simple way of expressing the act of giving a name.

refer to it as

This alternative focuses on how something is commonly known or spoken about.

term it

This alternative is slightly more formal and often used in technical or academic contexts.

designate it as

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes the act of officially assigning a name or function.

label it

This alternative emphasizes categorization or classification.

style it

This alternative implies a specific or chosen way of referring to something, often with a particular connotation.

dub it

This alternative is often used in informal contexts to give something a nickname or informal name.

christen it

This alternative suggests a more ceremonial or formal naming, often used for ships or significant projects.

deem it

This alternative is a more formal way of expressing a judgment or opinion about what to name something.

consider it

This alternative suggests viewing or thinking about something in a particular way.

FAQs

What does "call it" mean in a sentence?

In a sentence, "call it" generally means to name something or to refer to something in a particular way. It's often used when introducing a simplified term or a label.

How can I use "call it" in a sentence?

You can use "call it" to suggest a more common or understandable name for something. For example, "The official term is 'cognitive restructuring', but let's "refer to it as" 'thinking differently'.

What's a more formal way to say "call it"?

More formal alternatives to "call it" include "designate it as", "term it", or "label it". These options are suitable for academic or professional writing.

When is it appropriate to use "call it" in writing?

It is appropriate to use "call it" when you want to introduce a more accessible or informal term, or when you want to suggest a way of understanding something. It's common in news articles, conversational writing, and explanatory contexts.