English Reference
verb · adjective

called

v. · adj.
US /ˈkɔɫd/ UK /kˈɔːld/ called

  1. 01 A1 Beginner

    v.to have a particular name.

    v.used to specify the name or title of a person, place, or thing.

    Simple

    I have a cat called Luna who sleeps on my bed every night.

    In context

    The small village, called Oakhaven by the locals, does not appear on most maps printed before the nineteenth century.

    Usage

    Often used in the passive voice (be + called) to introduce a name.

    Pitfall
    He is calling John. He is called John.

    Use the passive form 'is called' to state someone's name. 'Is calling' means he is using a phone right now.

  2. 02 A1 Beginner

    v.the past tense of calling someone by phone or by shouting their name.

    v.the past tense of 'call', indicating a completed action of telephoning or vocal summoning.

    Simple

    She called me yesterday to talk about our holiday plans.

    In context

    The manager called the meeting to order after the final board member arrived and took their seat.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced FormalLiterary Religion

    adj.describing someone who has been asked to come or chosen for a special task.

    adj.describing a person who has been summoned or feels a divine or professional vocation.

    Simple

    He felt called to help people and decided to become a doctor.

    In context

    In many traditional narratives, the hero is a called individual who must leave their home to fulfill a destiny they did not choose.

Usage called on the government · called the decision · called the police

This entry
Level A1 · Beginner
Frequency Very common
Updated