it cannot be called that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it cannot be called that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express that something does not fit a particular description or label. Example: "While the project has some innovative elements, it cannot be called a success due to the numerous setbacks we faced."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Dry Sauternes, even if it cannot be called that, does appear to be selling.

The New York Times - Food

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

For example, Parmigiano Reggiano cannot be called that unless it really comes from the right parts of Italy.

The Economist

"Tabs in Finder is such an obvious feature that it cannot be called duplication … I personally expected tabs in Finder to appear in Lion.

The Guardian - Tech

Since Logue freely admits that he knows no Greek, it cannot be called a translation.

The Guardian - Books

It cannot be called an uprising.

The Guardian - Opinion

Its financing requirements must be covered so that its independence cannot be called into question.

EU Parlament

But fascism also cannot be called "conservative" without losing that term's original meaning, since it sought drastic changes by means so "vulgar" as to be unimaginable to conservatives like Burke.

Huffington Post

Apartment 711, with about 1,100 square feet, is a big studio with one bath and a home office (the current description of an extra space that cannot be called a bedroom because it has no window).

The New York Times

The traders ignore reality because they will make money from it and the basic appearance is that they are solvent because they have mega loans that cannot be called in.

The Guardian - Business

But it has to be addressed: partly because all that has been thought about Jews in the past has a home in what we think about Israel now and partly because it is axiomatic to Labour that Zionism is a racist ideology – from which it follows that anti-Zionism cannot be called racist; we will not fix antisemitism, in the Labour party or anywhere else, until we fix Israel.

The Guardian - Opinion

This inevitably limited the appeal of a piece that cannot be called unique.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it cannot be called that" when you want to politely express disagreement with a label or description. Consider the audience and context to ensure your tone remains respectful.

Common error

Avoid using "it cannot be called that" in overly casual settings. While generally acceptable, it can sometimes sound too formal or stilted in informal conversations. Opt for simpler alternatives like "that's not really it" or "I wouldn't call it that".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it cannot be called that" functions as a declarative statement used to express disagreement or to question the accuracy or appropriateness of a particular label or description. It is commonly used in contexts where a more direct contradiction might be considered impolite or too forceful. As Ludwig AI explains, this phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it cannot be called that" serves as a polite yet assertive way to express disagreement with a given description or label. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts. Its usage spans across news, science, encyclopedias and even less formal platforms like wikis, making it a versatile addition to your communication toolkit. When considering alternative phrases, options such as "it can't be termed that" or "that is a misnomer" offer nuanced ways to express similar sentiments. Be mindful of the context, and you'll wield this phrase effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it can't be termed that

Uses "termed" instead of "called", implying a more formal designation.

it should not be called that

Indicates a recommendation against using a particular label.

that's not what it should be called

Expresses a stronger sense of disagreement about the appropriate name.

that is a misnomer

Implies the name is inaccurate or misleading.

it's not accurate to call it that

Focuses on the lack of accuracy in using a specific term.

it doesn't deserve that name

Suggests the subject does not merit the given title or description.

that label is inappropriate

Directly states that the label is unsuitable.

it's a stretch to call it that

Implies the designation is an exaggeration or misrepresentation.

it's hardly what you'd call that

Downplays the appropriateness of the label with a touch of sarcasm.

it is a far cry from that

Emphasizes the significant difference between the subject and the named category.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "it cannot be called that"?

You can use alternatives such as "it can't be termed that", "that's not what it should be called", or "that is a misnomer" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "it cannot be called that"?

This phrase is appropriate when you want to politely disagree with a description or label. It's suitable for formal and semi-formal contexts where a direct contradiction might be seen as impolite.

What's the difference between "it cannot be called that" and "it should not be called that"?

"It cannot be called that" suggests that the label is factually incorrect or inappropriate based on current understanding. "It should not be called that" expresses a recommendation or opinion against using a particular label, perhaps for ethical or subjective reasons.

Is "it cannot be called that" too formal for casual conversation?

While generally acceptable, "it cannot be called that" can sometimes sound too formal in casual conversations. In informal settings, consider using alternatives such as "that's not really it" or "I wouldn't call it that".