commonly called

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "commonly called" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to introduce a term or name that is widely recognized or used by the general public. Example: "The chemical compound H2O is commonly called water."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It was commonly called "rabbit fever".

The New Yorker

Mellitus is the one commonly called diabetes.

The New York Times - Health

It is commonly called phone sex.

The New York Times

This integrated process is commonly called CAD/CAM.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In one corner is what's now commonly called "private space".

The Guardian - Opinion

I am referring to what are commonly called "tax expenditures".

The New York Times

Androstenedione, commonly called andro, is an unregulated food additive.

The New York Times - Sports

smelled bean curd" but which is commonly called "stinky tofu".

The New York Times

In England it is commonly called the Regency style.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A castrated stallion is commonly called a gelding.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Mozart most commonly called himself Wolfgang Amadé or Wolfgang Gottlieb.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "commonly called", ensure that the alternative name or term is indeed widely recognized and not just a niche term within a specific community. Provide context to clarify its relevance to your audience.

Common error

Avoid using "commonly called" to introduce a term that is not widely known or accepted. This can confuse readers and undermine your credibility. Verify the commonality of the term before using the phrase.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "commonly called" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying the verb, indicating how something is named or referred to. It serves to introduce a more popular or widely known term for something, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

27%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

13%

Less common in

Wiki

13%

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "commonly called" is a versatile and widely used expression that serves to introduce an alternative, more popular name for something. According to Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, ranging from news and media to scientific and encyclopedic writing. It functions as an adverbial phrase, clarifying terms by providing accessible alternatives. While appropriate for formal use, remember to ensure the alternative term is genuinely well-known to your audience. Common errors include using the phrase for obscure terms, which can confuse readers.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

usually termed

Replaces "called" with "termed", slightly more formal.

generally known as

Emphasizes widespread recognition; replaces "commonly" with "generally".

frequently referred to as

Highlights the act of referring, suitable when the term is actively used.

widely recognized as

Stresses the breadth of acknowledgment, good for formal contexts.

often designated as

Implies a formal or official naming, replacing "called" with "designated".

popularly known as

Suggests widespread but possibly informal recognition, using "popularly" instead of "commonly".

customarily named

Focuses on tradition and habitual naming, replacing "called" with "named".

in common parlance

Indicates usage within general conversation or everyday language; more descriptive.

more often known as

Implies that there are other names, but this one is more frequent.

typically identified as

Emphasizes the act of identification, rather than just naming.

FAQs

How can I use "commonly called" in a sentence?

Use "commonly called" to introduce an alternative name or term that is widely recognized. For example, "Sodium chloride is commonly called salt."

What are some alternatives to "commonly called"?

You can use alternatives like "generally known as", "frequently referred to as", or "widely recognized as" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "commonly called" in formal writing?

Yes, "commonly called" is appropriate in formal writing, but ensure the alternative term is genuinely well-known. For more formal contexts, consider "generally known as".

What's the difference between "commonly called" and "officially named"?

"Commonly called" refers to a name widely used in practice, while "officially named" indicates a formal or legal designation. For example, a nickname is "commonly called", whereas a registered company name is "officially named".