it was called for

USAGE SUMMARY

"it was called for" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is usually used to refer to something that needs to be done, and is often followed by the reason why. For example, "Given the circumstances, it was called for to make sure everyone was safe."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Sports

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

Radio 3 – or the Third Programme, as it was called for its first two decades – is 70 years old on 29 September.

The Guardian - Opinion

It was called for the day in the early afternoon.

The New York Times - Sports

It was called for up to 90 days.

The New York Times

It was called "for party reasons more than national ones," he added.

The New York Times

"It was called for 8 15 in the morning," Mr. Woldman said.

The New York Times - Food

He was capable of intensity when it was called for, but his best, most characteristic work always carried an element of play.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

Afterwards the EEI announced that it was calling for "regulation".

The Economist

PET--as it's called for short--is extremely versatile.

The New Yorker

He uses restraint, when it is called for.

The New York Times

Sometimes it's called for and helps enormously.

The New York Times

I don't take a lot, but I take it when it's called for.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it was called for" to indicate that a particular action or response was necessary or justified in a given situation. It adds a sense of reasoned decision-making to your writing.

Common error

While "it was called for" is grammatically sound, overuse of passive voice can make your writing sound weak or indirect. Consider rephrasing to use active voice where appropriate, such as "the situation called for it."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was called for" functions as a passive construction indicating that a particular action or response was deemed necessary or justified. Ludwig's examples illustrate its use in various contexts, highlighting its role in conveying the rationale behind a decision or action.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Arts

17%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Sports

8%

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it was called for" is a grammatically correct and usable expression indicating that an action was necessary or justified. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and offers various examples demonstrating its usage across different contexts, primarily in news and media. While not exceedingly common, it provides a clear way to express the rationale behind a decision or action. Remember to be mindful of the passive voice construction and consider active alternatives for more direct writing. Although the register is generally neutral, more formal synonyms can be considered when writing in a professional academic setting.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was required

A direct synonym focusing on the mandatory aspect of the action or thing.

it was deemed necessary

Replaces "called for" with a more formal term, emphasizing a judgment of necessity.

it was considered essential

Highlights the importance and indispensability of the action.

it was warranted

Indicates that there were sufficient reasons or grounds for the action.

it was seen as appropriate

Emphasizes suitability and fitness for the context.

it was justified

Focuses on the action being right and reasonable under the circumstances.

it was judged advisable

Suggests that a reasoned decision led to the action being taken.

the situation demanded it

Highlights the urgent or compelling nature of the need.

circumstances necessitated it

Shifts the emphasis to the situation forcing the action, rather than a calling for it.

it was the thing to do

Emphasizes that the action was the correct or expected response.

FAQs

How can I use "it was called for" in a sentence?

You can use "it was called for" to indicate that a particular action or response was necessary or justified. For example, "Given the intensity of the debate, such a measure "was called for"".

What can I say instead of "it was called for"?

You can use alternatives like "it was necessary", "it was required", or "it was essential" depending on the context.

Is "it was called for" formal or informal?

"It was called for" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although more formal alternatives might be preferable in academic or professional writing.

What's the difference between "it was called for" and "it was asked for"?

"It was called for" implies necessity or justification, while "it was asked for" simply means someone requested it. The former suggests a reasoned response, while the latter indicates a direct request. For example, the latter indicates a direct request. For example, "The product demo "was asked for" by the customer" and "Given the circumstances, that level of security "was called for"".