cried out for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cried out for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a strong need or desire for something, often in an emotional context. Example: "The community cried out for justice after the unfair decision was made."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

This movie cried out for that.

The New Yorker

"We cried out for bread and you gave us stones".

The New Yorker

Ser Clayton's face cried out for an axe between the eyes".

The New York Times - Books

If ever an area cried out for consolidation, the TV room is it.

The New York Times - Tech

The times cried out for leadership..

The New York Times - Books

His entire being cried out for food.

The New Yorker

Rector Street had cried out for rectification.

The New York Times

British honor cried out for revenge.

The New York Times - Books

Everything in me cried out for it.

The Guardian

His books cried out for a proofreader.

The New Yorker

One with 8 or 9 cried out for further scrutiny.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cried out for", ensure the subject is capable of emotion or expression. Abstract concepts like "the times" can "cry out", but inanimate objects generally cannot, unless personified.

Common error

Avoid using "cried out for" in overly formal or professional writing, as it can sound overly dramatic. Consider using more neutral alternatives like "called for" or "expressed a need for" in such situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cried out for" functions as a verb phrase indicating a strong and often emotional expression of need or desire. It signifies that something is urgently required or requested. Ludwig AI examples show a wide range of applications.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Science

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cried out for" is a verb phrase used to express a strong and urgent need or demand. Ludwig AI confirms that is grammatically correct and frequently found in news and media sources, denoting an appeal, request, or requirement felt with intensity. While effective in conveying emotion, it should be used judiciously in formal contexts where neutrality is preferred. Consider alternatives like "called for" or "demanded" for more formal scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

called for

Implies a more formal or public demand, often for action or change.

pleaded for

Suggests a desperate or emotional request, emphasizing vulnerability.

begged for

Conveys an even stronger sense of desperation and supplication.

yearned for

Indicates a deep longing or desire, often for something unattainable.

longed for

Similar to "yearned for", but may imply a more wistful or nostalgic feeling.

demanded

Signifies a forceful and assertive request, leaving little room for negotiation.

clamored for

Implies a noisy and chaotic demand from a large group of people.

badly needed

Focuses on the urgency and necessity of something.

was in dire need of

Emphasizes the critical and urgent requirement for something.

expressed a need for

A more neutral and less emotional way of stating a requirement.

FAQs

How can I use "cried out for" in a sentence?

Use "cried out for" to express a strong need or demand, often in an emotional or urgent context. For example: "The victims "cried out for" justice after the attack."

What's a less dramatic alternative to "cried out for"?

Alternatives like "called for", "needed", or "required" can be used in more formal or neutral contexts to convey a similar meaning without the emotional intensity.

Is it appropriate to use "cried out for" in business writing?

While possible, "cried out for" is generally less suitable for formal business writing. Consider using phrases like "demanded" or "needed" for a more professional tone.

What is the difference between "cried out for" and "called for"?

"Cried out for" implies a more emotional and urgent plea, while "called for" suggests a more formal or public demand for something. The former is more personal, while the latter is often used in political or social contexts.