is uncalled for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is uncalled for" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to express that something is inappropriate or unnecessary in a given situation. Example: His comment about her appearance was uncalled for and quite hurtful.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

So for an umpire in this case to take a game away from somebody like Serena is uncalled for". As for the specifics, Williams was trying against Osaka to tie Margaret Court's tennis record of 24 major championships, but she was penalized a point and then that game by chair umpire Carlos Ramos for a combination of things.

Forbes

Innuendo is uncalled for.

The New York Times

Hysteria is uncalled for and unseemly.

The New York Times

Or perhaps that comparison is uncalled for.

The Guardian - Arts

This is uncalled for," the employee said.

The Guardian

To say they will go belly up is uncalled for.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

Ganguly, who played alongside Tendulkar for 15 years and led India in 49 Tests, says speculation over the master batsman's future in the game is uncalled-for.

The New York Times

It was uncalled-for.

The New York Times

"It was uncalled-for," she said.

The New York Times

"For me, it was uncalled-for.

The New York Times - Sports

"But this was something that was uncalled-for.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is uncalled for" to express strong disapproval or disagreement, particularly when something seems excessive or unfair. For a slightly milder tone, consider alternatives like "is unnecessary" or "is inappropriate".

Common error

While "is uncalled for" is widely understood, it can sometimes sound overly critical in formal settings. Consider replacing it with more neutral alternatives like "is not required" or "is unnecessary" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is uncalled for" functions as a predicate adjective, expressing a judgment that something is inappropriate, unnecessary, or unwarranted. As Ludwig AI points out, it is a common way to express disapproval. Examples show it modifying actions, remarks, or sentiments.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is uncalled for" is a versatile expression used to convey disapproval or disagreement, deeming something as inappropriate or unnecessary. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts. Predominantly found in News & Media sources, this expression serves to criticize actions, remarks, or sentiments perceived as excessive or unjustified. While appropriate in neutral and somewhat informal settings, consider alternatives like "is inappropriate" or "is unnecessary" in formal contexts to maintain a professional tone. Ludwig's analysis offers a comprehensive understanding of this expression's function, purpose, and appropriate usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is inappropriate

Focuses on the lack of suitability or fittingness of something.

is unwarranted

Emphasizes the lack of justification or reason for something.

is unnecessary

Highlights that something is not needed or required.

is unjustified

Stresses the absence of a valid excuse or defense for something.

is out of line

Indicates that someone has exceeded the bounds of acceptable behavior.

is unacceptable

Conveys that something cannot be tolerated or allowed.

is not justified

Similar to "is unjustified" but phrased differently.

is not needed

Simple and direct way of saying something is not required.

is out of order

Implies a disruption of proper procedure or decorum.

is excessive

Indicates that something goes beyond what is reasonable or necessary.

FAQs

How can I use "is uncalled for" in a sentence?

You can use "is uncalled for" to express that something is inappropriate or unnecessary in a given situation. For example, "His comment about her personal life was uncalled for and quite rude."

What are some alternatives to saying "is uncalled for"?

You can use alternatives like "is inappropriate", "is unwarranted", or "is unnecessary" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "is uncalled for"?

The phrase "is uncalled for" is appropriate when you want to express that something was unnecessary, inappropriate, or excessive in a given situation. It is often used to convey disapproval or disagreement.

What's the difference between "is uncalled for" and "is inappropriate"?

While both phrases express disapproval, "is uncalled for" often suggests a stronger sense of excess or unfairness. "Is inappropriate", on the other hand, focuses more on the lack of suitability or fittingness. The phrase "is inappropriate" indicates a lack of suitability, while "is uncalled for" implies something was excessive or unwarranted.