is not called for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is not called for" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something is unnecessary or unwarranted in a given context. Example: "The criticism he received for his minor mistake is not called for; everyone makes errors sometimes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

There is a cabaret character to "The Threepenny Opera," and fancy operatic singing is not called for.

The New York Times - Arts

But this is not a contrary-to-fact condition, just an indirect quotation after the past-tense verb "asked," so the subjunctive is not called for.

The New York Times

Burke also said that he believed that teams should try to score a touchdown when facing fourth-and-goal from the 6 or closer, assuming a last-second field goal is not called for.

The New York Times - Sports

But in response to a Palestinian demand for the release of prisoners, which is not called for in the plan, Mr. Sharon told Mr. Abbas that he would free 100 detainees, officials said.

The New York Times

In a staged game filmed in late September against Sacramento, James looks dazed; he holds the ball just beyond the 3-point line for 51 seconds (yet is not called for a violation, the prerogative of a budding megastar in a corporate-fueled fantasy) before he smiles, whoops, drives to the hoop and says, "That's funny".

The New York Times - Sports

Basically I find myself in the ideal position of being a spectator: things are happening that interest me profoundly, that correspond in general terms to what I wanted to see happen (even though I would have been unable to foresee them clearly) and my participation in them is not called for, in fact it is ruled out.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

HRW is not calling for this.

The Economist

De Botton is not calling for a religious revival.

The New York Times - Books

The administration is not "calling for increased domestic drilling everywhere".

The New York Times

Even now, despite siren voices urging it on, the party is not calling for a withdrawal.

The Economist

It is disappointing that Ms. Quinn is not calling for the elimination of the discretionary funds.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is not called for", ensure the context clearly indicates why the action or statement is unnecessary or inappropriate. This helps avoid ambiguity and strengthens your argument.

Common error

While versatile, the phrase "is not called for" can sometimes sound too informal in highly formal or academic writing. Consider using more sophisticated synonyms like "is unwarranted" or "is unjustified" for a more professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is not called for" functions as a predicate adjective, expressing that something is unnecessary, inappropriate, or unjustified. It modifies a noun or pronoun, indicating a lack of need or reason. Ludwig provides examples where this phrase conveys a judgment about the suitability of an action or statement.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is not called for" is a common expression used to indicate that something is unnecessary, inappropriate, or unjustified in a particular situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and versatile. While frequently found in news and media contexts, as well as scientific writing, it's important to consider the level of formality required, as more sophisticated synonyms may be preferable in highly formal settings. Best practice involves ensuring the context clearly explains why the action is unnecessary. Related phrases include "is unnecessary" and "is unwarranted", each offering slightly different nuances. Overall, understanding the subtle implications and contexts for using "is not called for" will enhance clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is unnecessary

Directly states that something is not needed, removing the implication of inappropriateness.

is unwarranted

Suggests something lacks justification or reason, often implying unfairness.

is uncalled for

Similar to the original phrase, but emphasizes the inappropriateness or rudeness of something.

is not required

Focuses on the lack of a need or obligation, suitable for formal contexts.

is not needed

Simple and direct, indicating a lack of necessity.

is out of place

Indicates something is inappropriate or unsuitable for a specific situation.

is not justified

Emphasizes the lack of a valid reason or excuse.

is inappropriate

Highlights the unsuitability or impropriety of something.

is unbefitting

Suggests something is not in accordance with standards or expectations.

is extraneous

Indicates something is irrelevant or not essential.

FAQs

How can I use "is not called for" in a sentence?

You can use "is not called for" to express that something is unnecessary or inappropriate in a given situation. For example, "Such drastic measures are not called for at this stage."

What are some alternatives to "is not called for"?

Alternatives include "is unnecessary", "is unwarranted", or "is inappropriate". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "is not called for"?

It's appropriate when you want to express that a particular action, statement, or measure is not needed or justified in a given situation. It often implies that the action is excessive or out of place.

What's the difference between "is not called for" and "is uncalled for"?

While very similar, "is uncalled for" often carries a stronger connotation of rudeness or inappropriateness, while "is not called for" is generally a more neutral expression indicating something is unnecessary.