exactly what I called

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "exactly what I called" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize that something matches or corresponds precisely to what you previously mentioned or requested. Example: "This response is exactly what I called for in our last meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

That's exactly what I called for.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

And that is exactly what I call 'class warfare'".

Huffington Post

It turned out that as an ALIEN (Yes, that is exactly what I am called as though I am from Mars) I cannot serve my country.

HuffPost

"Well, he's not exactly what I would call an American sweetheart," Ms. Travers says.

The New York Times

The Road Chip isn't exactly what I'd call a good film and has almost nothing going on in the visual department, but for those saddled with kids for an afternoon, you could do a lot worse.

The Guardian - Film

Not exactly what I'd call a thumbs up.

TechCrunch

Entrance exam preparation is costly and not exactly what I'd call fun.

TechCrunch

They end up giving the iPAQ 510 three out of five stars, not exactly what I'd call earth-shattering.

TechCrunch

Mike and Marta are selling lifestyles, specifically an aspirational, hip Brooklyn lifestyle, which is exactly what I would call their brand (read about the only useful definition of branding here).

Forbes

Not exactly what I'd call feminism.

Huffington Post

It you have any further information about her disappearance, please contact Queensland Police or Crime Stoppers at 1300 333 000.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "exactly what I called" to emphasize that a result perfectly matches a previous specification. This reinforces clarity and avoids ambiguity in communication.

Common error

Avoid using "exactly what I called" when the reference is unclear or not previously established. Ensure a clear antecedent exists to maintain coherence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exactly what I called" functions as an adverbial phrase emphasizing the precision or accuracy of a result or outcome relative to a prior statement or request. As Ludwig indicates, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "exactly what I called" serves to emphasize that a result or outcome precisely matches a previously stated request or instruction. Grammatically sound and primarily found in News & Media contexts, according to Ludwig, it highlights a clear alignment between expectations and reality. When using the phrase, ensure clarity of reference to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "precisely what I requested" or "just as I specified" can offer a more formal tone, while "that's what I asked for" is suitable for casual settings. The context determines the most appropriate usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

precisely what I requested

Replaces 'called' with 'requested' to emphasize a formal request.

just as I specified

Substitutes 'exactly' with 'just as' and 'called' with 'specified' to convey accuracy.

precisely the thing I mentioned

Replaces 'called' with 'mentioned' making the phrase less formal and broader in scope.

precisely the item I indicated

Replaces 'what' with 'the item' and 'called' with 'indicated' making the phrase more specific.

that's what I asked for

Uses a more direct and conversational tone, focusing on the act of asking.

that is what I named

Replaces 'called' with 'named', used when literally naming something.

that's what I described

Changes 'called' to 'described', suitable when referring to a detailed description.

exactly my intention

Shortens the original phrase removing what I called, but keeping the exact intention of the expression.

precisely what I envisioned

Replaces 'called' with 'envisioned' to suggest a mental image or expectation.

exactly the outcome I predicted

Substitutes 'called' with 'predicted' to suggest a foretelling of an event or result.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "exactly what I called" for a more formal tone?

For a more formal tone, you could use phrases like "precisely what I requested" or "just as I specified" which offer a similar meaning but with enhanced formality.

What's a more casual way to say "exactly what I called"?

In a more casual context, try "that's what I asked for" or "just what I wanted". These options are more direct and conversational.

Is there a difference between saying "exactly what I called for" and "exactly what I wanted"?

While similar, "exactly what I called for" implies a specific requirement or instruction was given, whereas "exactly what I wanted" suggests a personal preference or desire. The choice depends on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "exactly what I called" in writing?

It's appropriate when you want to emphasize that something perfectly aligns with a previous instruction, request, or specification. Ensure the reference is clear to avoid confusion.