‘It’s Called’ vs ‘It Called’: What’s the Real Difference?

Have you ever paused mid-sentence, unsure whether to say “It’s called” or **“It called”? You’re not alone. These two phrases may look almost identical, but they carry completely different meanings—and using the wrong one can make your sentence sound awkward or confusing. 

In English, little details like this can make a big impact on how clearly you communicate.

In this article, we’ll break down exactly what each phrase means, when to use them, and why mixing them up can lead to miscommunication. 

Whether you’re writing a blog post, sending a text, or just trying to sound more polished in conversation, understanding this subtle difference will give you an edge.

With real-life examples, grammar breakdowns, and easy-to-remember tips, this guide will make sure you never get tripped up again. Let’s dive into the truth behind ‘It’s called’ vs ‘It called’—and how to use each one like a pro.

What Does ‘It’s Called’ Actually Mean?

Breaking Down the Contraction ‘It’s’

Let’s start with the basics: “It’s” is a contraction of “it is” or “it has.” You’ll often see it used in everyday speech and writing. Contractions like “it’s” make language sound more natural and conversational.

• ‘It is’: Used to describe something in the present tense or to explain a situation.
  
  • Example: It’s raining outside.
    
• ‘It has’: Used to describe something in the present perfect tense.
  
  • Example: It’s been a long time since we met.
    

In the phrase “It’s called”, we’re combining “it’s” (meaning “it is”) with the past participle “called,” which means to name or to identify something. So, when you say, “It’s called a book,” you’re identifying or naming something.

How ‘It’s Called’ Works in a Sentence

Grammatically, ‘It’s called’ follows the structure of subject + linking verb + past participle. This construction is commonly used to introduce a name, title, or concept. The subject here is “it,” and the phrase “called” refers to the naming of something.

For example:

• It’s called a marathon.
  
• It’s called The Great Gatsby.
  

You use “It’s called” whenever you’re referring to how something is known or labeled.

Examples of ‘It’s Called’ in Action

Here are a few everyday examples where “It’s called” is the correct phrase to use:

• It’s called a smartphone. – You are naming a type of device.
  
• It’s called a pizza. – A straightforward way to describe what something is.
  
• It’s called the internet. – Naming a broad concept.
  

In each case, you are essentially defining or identifying something. This is a very common structure in both spoken and written English, especially when giving names or titles to objects, places, or ideas.

What About ‘It Called’? Is It Ever Correct?

Understanding the Structure: Subject + Verb

When you say “It called”, you are using “called” as a simple past verb, which implies that “it” (the subject) performed an action in the past. However, this is where things get tricky. Generally, ‘It called’ isn’t the appropriate construction unless “called” refers to an action that something did, like making a phone call or crying out.

This usage often sounds incomplete or awkward because it leaves the sentence hanging without a clear context.

When ‘It Called’ Is Grammatically Correct

There are specific situations where “It called” is grammatically correct, and they typically involve actions, not identification. Here are the scenarios where you can use “It called”:

• To describe an object making a phone call:
  
  • Example: The alarm went off, and it called the police.
    
• When something “calls out” or makes a noise:
  
  • Example: The bird flew past me, and it called to its mate.
    

These examples reflect actions where the subject (“it”) is performing the verb “called,” which refers to making a sound or phone call.

Why ‘It Called’ Sounds Off in Most Contexts

In most everyday situations, ‘It called’ doesn’t sound right. Why? Because the verb “called” usually needs a direct object to make sense. For instance, in “It called for help,” there’s an implied object (the person or thing needing help). However, if you just say, “It called,” you’re leaving the reader or listener confused.

Common Mistakes and Confusions Between the Two

Mistaking Passive Voice for Active Voice

Here’s where many people make mistakes: “It’s called” is often confused with passive voice. In passive voice, the subject receives the action, whereas in active voice, the subject performs the action.

• It’s called a cup (passive) – The object is being named.
  
• It called a cup (active) – Sounds unnatural because we would typically say, “It called for a cup” or “It called something.”
  

So, the mistake here is using “It called” when you really mean to say “It’s called.”

How Auto-Correct and Speech-to-Text Cause Errors

Technology sometimes complicates matters by correcting language automatically. For instance, when you speak into your phone, your device might misinterpret “It’s called” as “It called” or vice versa, especially if your speech is unclear. Always double-check the output for accuracy.

How to Choose the Right Phrase Every Time

Here’s a quick guide to choosing the correct phrase:

Ask Yourself: Are You Naming Something?

• If yes, use “It’s called”.
  
  • Example: It’s called a bicycle.
    

Are You Talking About an Action It Did?

• If yes, use “It called”—but only in specific contexts where the subject performed an action.
  
  • Example: It called the fire department.
    

Quick Rule of Thumb Table

Sentence Goal	Correct Phrase	Example
Naming or identifying	It’s called	“It’s called a triangle.”
Describing an action	It called	“It called for help.”

Real-Life Examples from Media, Literature, and Conversation

How ‘It’s Called’ Appears in TV, Movies, and Books

In movies and literature, “It’s called” is often used to introduce a concept, an object, or a character’s name. This helps set the scene or provide context quickly.

For example:

• In the book Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, a character might say, “It’s called a broomstick.” This quickly informs the reader about the magical object.
  

Rare but Correct Uses of ‘It Called’ in News and Tech

In technical writing or news, “It called” could be used when describing an action that something did. For instance, you might read, “The machine malfunctioned, and it called emergency services.”

These are rare but valid uses where “called” is describing an action rather than a name.

How Native Speakers Use These in Conversation

Regional Differences or Speech Patterns?

In some regions, people might shorten phrases like “It’s called” into “It’s” for quicker communication. However, “It called” is still less common and is used only in specific action-related contexts.

In casual speech, the omission of “is” might occur, but it won’t change the fundamental structure or meaning.

Idiomatic and Slang Usage

Native speakers might use “It’s called” in more figurative ways, especially in sarcastic or playful contexts. For instance:

• It’s called growing up—learn to deal with it!
  

Here, the phrase takes on a deeper, figurative meaning that goes beyond naming something literally.

Quick Tips to Remember the Difference

• Tip 1: Use “It’s called” when you’re naming something or referring to a known object.
  
• Tip 2: Only use “It called” if describing an action, like making a phone call or crying out.
  
• Tip 3: If you can’t insert “is” or “has” without changing the meaning, then “It’s called” is the right choice.
  

Conclusion

Now that we’ve broken down the differences between ‘It’s called’ and ‘It called’, you should have a clear understanding of when to use each phrase. To sum up:

• ‘It’s called’ is used when naming or identifying something.
  
• ‘It called’ is used only in specific situations where the subject performs an action (like making a phone call or calling out).
  

By following the rules and examples provided, you can confidently use these phrases in everyday conversation and writing, avoiding common mistakes and sounding more natural.

Bonus: Mini Quiz – Test Yourself

Test your understanding of these two phrases by completing the sentences below:

1. The place where we meet up is ___ a cafe.
   
2. The dog ___ its owner several times last night.
   
3. This app is ___ Google Maps.
   

Answer Key:

1. It’s called
   
2. It called
   
3. It’s called
   

FAQ Section

Can you use ‘It’s called’ in formal writing?

Yes, “It’s called” is perfectly acceptable in both formal and informal writing. It’s commonly used in academic and professional contexts to introduce specific terms, names, or titles.

What if I just say ‘called’?

In most cases, ‘called’ alone is not sufficient. You’ll typically need to add context, such as an object or a clear action, for it to make sense.

Are there any exceptions where both are okay?

Rarely, both ‘It’s called’ and ‘It called’ can appear in the same sentence, but the meaning will drastically change. If you are naming something, go with ‘It’s called’; if you are describing an action, use ‘It called’.