what we call

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'what we call' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to introduce a topic or to clarify a concept. For example: "What we call an 'urban legend' is a modern form of storytelling."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"That's what we call them".

The New York Times

It's what we call civilization.

The New Yorker

They're what we call parasites.

Harvard University

That is what we call leverage".

The New York Times

Do you know what we call you?

The New Yorker

Results — what we call effective innovation.

The New York Times

She was what we call very Embodied".

The New Yorker

It's what we call lukewarm.

The Times

He's what we call a salesman.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

"They are beyond what we call hypocrisy.

The New York Times - Books

This Infrastructure is what we call ARES.

Biology Direct

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "what we call" to introduce technical terms, neologisms, or specific jargon within a particular field or context. This helps to signal that the term might be unfamiliar to the audience.

Common error

Avoid using "what we call" excessively in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "that's" or "it's" for a more natural flow.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "what we call" functions as an introductory phrase, typically used to define or present a specific term, concept, or idea to the audience. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

29%

Academia

18%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "what we call" is a versatile introductory phrase used to define or present a term or concept. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across diverse contexts, including news, science, and academia. While adaptable, it's advisable to avoid overuse in very informal settings. Consider alternatives like "what we term" or "what we refer to as" for variety. Remember to use "what we call" strategically to introduce technical or unfamiliar terms effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

what we refer to as

Adds "refer to as" for a slightly more verbose but equally common phrasing.

what we term

Replaces "call" with "term", suggesting a slightly more formal or technical designation.

the term we apply to

Similar to "what we term", but emphasizes the application of a term to something.

what we designate

Substitutes "call" with "designate", implying a more official or specific naming.

which we identify as

Highlights the act of identifying or recognizing something under a particular name.

the expression we use for

Rephrases the entire structure, focusing on the act of using a specific expression.

how we describe

Focuses on the manner in which something is depicted or characterized.

as we define it

Shifts the focus to the act of defining something within a specific context.

in our terminology

Indicates that the following term is specific to a particular field or group.

that is to say

Offers a more explanatory or clarifying tone, introducing a restatement of something.

FAQs

How can I use "what we call" in a sentence?

You can use "what we call" to introduce a specific term or concept. For example, "what we call an 'urban legend' is a modern form of storytelling".

Are there alternatives to using "what we call"?

Yes, depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "what we term", "what we designate", or "what we refer to as".

Is "what we call" formal or informal?

"What we call" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it's often used to introduce a more technical or specific term that might be unfamiliar to the audience.

When is it appropriate to use "what we call" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "what we call" when you want to clearly define or introduce a term, especially if that term is specific to a particular field, group, or context. It helps to signal that the term might need clarification.