what is it called

USAGE SUMMARY

"what is it called" is correct and usable in written English.
You would typically use this phrase to ask someone for the name of something. For example, if you saw a strange-looking vehicle on the street, you might ask the person next to you, "What is it called?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

What is it called?

The New York Times

Do you have' — what is it called?

The New Yorker

And what is it called?

The New Yorker

I do — what is it called?

The New York Times - Arts

"What is it called now?" DENNY LEE.

The New York Times

"What is it called," asked one of the ladies.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

What was it called?

Columbia University

PG: What was it called?

The New York Times

Obs: What was it called?

The Guardian - Books

Boldface: What's it called?

The New York Times

Hell, what was it called?

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When you're unsure of a specific term, use "what is it called" to prompt a reminder or explanation from the other person.

Common error

Avoid using "what is it called" in formal writing where precise language is expected. Instead, research and use the correct terminology, or rephrase to be more descriptive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "what is it called" functions primarily as an interrogative expression used to seek the name or designation of something. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English, and the examples show it's commonly used when the speaker cannot recall a specific term.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "what is it called" serves as an interrogative phrase used to request the name or designation of something. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically sound and is frequently employed across diverse sources, including News & Media, Academia and Wiki. Although the phrase is perfectly correct, it is recommended to use more precise language in formal and scientific writing to show off a greater level of formality and professionality. Alternatives such as "what's it named"? and "what's the term for it"? can offer subtle variations in emphasis and formality. The phrase is best used in spoken language or informal writing but should be avoided in formal documents, where precise terminology is expected. The phrase's main goal is to bridge a temporary memory gap and the user to prompt a quick reminder of the correct name.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

what's it named

Focuses on the name rather than the calling or designation.

what do you call it

Shifts the focus to the person being asked, inquiring about their term for something.

what's the term for it

Specifically asks for the correct term or label.

what is its designation

Uses a more formal term, 'designation', for the name or title.

how is it referred to

Emphasizes the act of referring to something by a particular name.

what label is applied to it

Focuses on the label or tag used to identify something.

by what name is it known

A more formal and elaborate way of asking for the name.

under what title does it go

Inquires about the official title or heading.

what moniker is it given

Uses the word 'moniker' for name, indicating a nickname or informal name.

how should I identify it

Asks for guidance on how to correctly name or recognize something.

FAQs

How can I use "what is it called" in a sentence?

You can use "what is it called" when you're trying to recall the name of something. For example, "I went to that restaurant, what is it called, oh yes, The Italian Place."

What's a more formal alternative to "what is it called"?

For a more formal tone, you might ask, "What is its designation?" or "By what name is it known?". These options are suitable for professional or academic contexts.

Is it appropriate to use "what is it called" in academic writing?

While grammatically correct, "what is it called" is generally too informal for academic writing. Aim for more precise and descriptive language. Instead of saying "the thing, what is it called, that measures X", provide the exact term.

What can I say instead of "what is it called" when speaking with someone?

Alternatives include "what do you call it?", "what's it named"?, or "what's the term for it"? depending on the context and your relationship with the person.