it's called

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it's called" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when introducing or explaining something. For example, "It's called aeropress coffee - it's made using a special coffee-making device."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's called Hazlitt's.

The New Yorker

It's called programming".

The New York Times - Sports

It's called children".

The New York Times

It's called self-management.

The New York Times

Anyway, it's called Bedlam.

The New York Times

It's called caring.

The New York Times

It's called the cuarentena.

The New York Times

It's called "Bible Thumper".

The New York Times

It's called the beehive.

The New York Times

It's called slavery.

The New York Times

It's called Google Keep.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it's called" to introduce a term or name that might be unfamiliar to your audience, ensuring clarity and understanding. For instance, when explaining a technical concept or regional term.

Common error

Avoid using "it's called" in highly formal or academic writing where more precise or technical language may be expected. Consider using phrases like "it is referred to as" or "the technical term is" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it's called" functions as an introductory phrase. It serves to present the name or designation of something being discussed. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. The examples highlight its role in providing labels and explanations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it's called" is a common and grammatically correct way to introduce or explain the name of something. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it serves the purpose of informing and clarifying, ensuring that the audience understands the specific term being used. While its register is generally neutral, it leans towards the informal side due to the contraction "it's". Therefore, it's most frequently used in news and media contexts, as well as in general conversation. For more formal or academic settings, alternatives like "it is referred to as" or "the technical term is" may be more appropriate. Remember to use "it's called" to clarify unfamiliar terms but avoid it in overly formal contexts to maintain an appropriate tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that is called

Shifts focus slightly to "that" instead of "it", useful when referring back to something already mentioned.

it is known as

Highlights the widespread recognition of a particular name or term.

it is named

Replaces the contraction "it's" with "it is" and uses "named" instead of "called" offering a slightly more formal tone.

the term for it is

Specifically indicates that a technical term or label is being provided.

the proper term is

Highlights the accuracy and precision of a specific term, implying that other terms might be incorrect.

it is referred to as

A more formal and descriptive way of indicating the name or designation of something.

this is designated

Suggests a formal assignment of a name, often used in technical or official contexts.

it goes by the name of

Emphasizes the act of using a specific name, suitable for informal or narrative contexts.

we call it

Implies a subjective naming, indicating that the speaker or a group has chosen the name.

you might know it as

Acknowledges that the audience may already be familiar with the subject under a different name.

FAQs

How can I use "it's called" in a sentence?

"It's called" is used to introduce the name or term for something. For example, "The process of converting sunlight into electricity, "it's called photovoltaics"."

What are some alternatives to "it's called"?

Alternatives include "it is known as", "it is referred to as", or "the term for it is". The best choice depends on the context and level of formality.

Is "it's called" appropriate for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "it's called" might be perceived as too informal for certain academic or professional contexts. Consider using more formal alternatives like "it is named" or "it is designated".

What's the difference between "it's called" and "that is called"?

"It's called" generally introduces something new, while "that is called" typically refers back to something already mentioned. For example, "We use a special type of polymer. "That is called polylactic acid"."