that call for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "that call for" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate a need or requirement for something, often in the context of actions or responses that are necessary. Example: "The situation is critical and that call for immediate action from all team members."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Moreover, it includes the so-called revelational commandments that call for obedience.

SEP

Use in recipes that call for couscous.

Independent

He has to watch for happenings during the performance that call for special messages.

The New Yorker

Squirrel and rabbit recipes abound, and there are several that call for tree rats.

The New Yorker

Palestinian representatives again abrogated the clauses in the national Charter that call for Israel's destruction.

The Economist

The most successful companies now are the ones that call for accountability.

The New York Times

Others that call for elongating the back, like seated forward bend, can wreak havoc on discs.

The New York Times

But we have laws that call for separation of campaigning and governing.

The New York Times

Their informants have every incentive to play up threats and opportunities that call for more lobbying.

The Economist

Families attend, with toddlers sporting bandannas bearing slogans that call for the death penalty.

The Economist

THE BASICS There are times in life that call for someplace special.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "that call for", ensure the sentence clearly indicates what action or response is being called for. Avoid ambiguity by specifying the subject or situation requiring the action.

Common error

Avoid using "that call for" with unclear or overly broad subjects. For example, instead of saying "The situation calls for action," specify who should take action or what specific actions are needed to address the situation effectively.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "that call for" functions as a relative clause modifying a noun, indicating a need or requirement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's used to specify the actions or responses necessary in a given situation. For example, 'situations that call for caution' indicates situations where caution is needed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

38%

Wiki

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Academia

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "that call for" is a versatile phrase used to express a need or requirement in various contexts. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used. It functions as a relative clause and serves to highlight the necessary actions or responses, as evident in the provided examples. Predominantly found in News & Media and Science contexts, the phrase holds a neutral to formal register, though it is also present in informal writing. Alternatives such as "that require" or "that necessitate" can be used to add nuance. When employing "that call for", ensure clarity by specifying the subject or situation requiring the action and avoid vague or overly broad subjects. With its widespread applicability and straightforward meaning, "that call for" remains a valuable tool in effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that necessitate

Focuses more on the inevitability or logical consequence of the action.

that require

Emphasizes a demand or prerequisite for something.

that demand

Highlights the urgency and insistence of the need.

that warrant

Suggests justification or permission for a particular action.

that justify

Implies providing a rationale or defense for a certain response.

that give rise to

Indicates a cause-and-effect relationship leading to a specific situation.

that occasion

Highlights the specific event or circumstance that prompts a reaction.

that are conducive to

Indicates favorable conditions or circumstances that promote a specific outcome.

that invite

Suggests encouragement or inducement towards a particular action.

that predispose to

Emphasizes the vulnerability or susceptibility to a specific outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "that call for" in a sentence?

Use "that call for" to indicate a need or requirement for something. For example, "These are times "that call for principles", purpose and clarity" or "There are situations "that call for caution" and thoughtfulness".

What are some alternatives to "that call for"?

Alternatives include phrases like "that require", "that necessitate", or "that warrant", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "that call for" formal or informal?

"That call for" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but is more common in neutral to formal writing, as seen in news and academic sources.

What is the difference between "that call for" and "that called for"?

"That call for" implies a present or ongoing need, while "that called for" refers to a past need. For example, "These are times that call for leadership" versus "The emergency response that called for immediate evacuation".