were called for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "were called for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something was requested or needed in a particular situation. Example: "The additional resources were called for to complete the project on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

But some allowances were called for.

The New York Times - Arts

The Celtics were called for 33 fouls.

The New York Times

The Heat were called for 18.

The New York Times

No payments were called for.

The New York Times

Both were called for fouls.

The New York Times - Sports

New presidential elections were called for May 25.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Finally, questions were called for, but none were asked.

The New York Times

Two years later, they were called for an interview.

The New York Times

Four times Turkish players were called for fouls against him.

The New York Times - Sports

All were called for strikes, and the threat passed.

The New York Times - Sports

The teams were called for offsetting penalties for some pushing and shoving.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "were called for", ensure the subject clearly indicates what was needed or requested, avoiding ambiguity in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "were called for" when an active voice would be more direct and clear. For example, instead of "Changes were called for by the committee", consider "The committee called for changes".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "were called for" functions as a passive verb phrase, indicating that something was requested, required, or demanded. Ludwig examples show its usage in contexts ranging from formal requests to necessary actions. The Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

34%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "were called for" is a grammatically sound and frequently used passive construction indicating that something was requested, needed, or required. As Ludwig shows, it commonly appears in news, scientific, and wiki contexts, reflecting a neutral to formal register. When writing, consider whether an active voice might be clearer and more direct. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability across various domains, making it a reliable choice for formal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

were needed

Focuses on the necessity of something, similar to "were called for" indicating something was required.

were required

Emphasizes the mandatory nature, like something was essential or obligatory.

were requested

Highlights the act of asking for something, similar to a formal call.

were asked for

More direct and simpler way to express that something was requested.

were in demand

Indicates a high level of need or popularity, suggesting a strong requirement.

were sought after

Suggests something was actively looked for or pursued because of its value or necessity.

were designated

Implies a formal assignment or specification for a particular purpose.

were summoned

Emphasizes a formal or official request for someone or something to appear.

were stipulated

Highlights that something was explicitly specified as a condition or requirement.

were deemed necessary

Focuses on the judgment that something was essential or indispensable.

FAQs

How can I use "were called for" in a sentence?

You can use "were called for" to indicate that something was requested or needed. For example, "Additional resources "were needed" to complete the project on time" or "New elections "were required" after the government collapsed".

What's the difference between "were called for" and "were needed"?

"Were called for" often implies a formal request or demand, whereas ""were needed"" simply indicates a necessity. The former suggests an active agent making the call or request.

What are some alternatives to "were called for"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like ""were required"", "were requested", or "were in demand" to convey a similar meaning. Each alternative emphasizes a slightly different aspect of the need or request.

Is it appropriate to use "were called for" in informal writing?

While grammatically correct, "were called for" is more suited to formal and professional contexts. In informal writing, simpler phrases like ""were needed"" or "were asked for" may be more appropriate.