Many English learners become confused between it’s called and it called because the two phrases look similar. However, they do not have the same meaning or grammar. Using the correct phrase makes your writing and speaking sound natural and professional.
In this guide, you will learn the difference between it’s called vs it called, when to use each one, common mistakes, simple examples, and helpful grammar tips. By the end, you will know which phrase is correct in different situations.
It Called or It Is Called
The correct phrase depends on the sentence.
- It’s called is short for it is called.
- It is called is the full form.
- It called is usually incomplete unless called is used as the main verb in a past tense sentence with additional words.
Examples
- ✅ It’s called a microscope.
- ✅ It is called artificial intelligence.
- ❌ It called a microscope.
- ❌ It called artificial intelligence.
This Symbol Is Called
When introducing the name of a sign, object, or symbol, always use is called.
Examples
- This symbol is called the ampersand (&).
- This sign is called a hashtag.
- This punctuation mark is called a colon.
- This shape is called a triangle.
What Does “It’s Called” Mean?
It’s called means it is known as, it has the name, or people refer to it by this name.
It is commonly used when explaining the name of an object, place, person, process, or idea.
Examples
- It’s called a telescope.
- It’s called machine learning.
- It’s called teamwork.
- It’s called a rainbow.
Full Form vs Contracted Form
Both expressions are correct.
| Form | Example |
| Full Form | It is called a computer. |
| Contracted Form | It’s called a computer. |
When to Use the Full Form
Use It is called in:
- Academic writing
- Formal documents
- Business writing
- Educational content
When to Use the Contracted Form
Use It’s called in:
- Daily conversation
- Social media
- Text messages
- Blogs
- Informal writing
What Does “It Called” Mean? (When Is This Correct?)
By itself, it called is not grammatically correct.
However, it can appear in longer sentences where called functions differently.
Correct Examples
- It called my attention to the problem.
- It called for immediate action.
- It called everyone together.
Here, called is the main verb, not part of the phrase is called.
It’s Called vs It Called Side by Side Comparison
| Feature | It’s Called | It Called |
| Grammar | Correct | Usually incorrect alone |
| Meaning | It is known as | Past tense verb in specific contexts |
| Everyday Use | Very common | Rare |
| Formal Writing | Yes | Only in complete sentences |
| Speaking | Yes | Limited |
The Contraction vs Possessive Trap
Many learners confuse it’s with its.
It’s
It’s means it is or it has.
Example:
- It’s called grammar.
Its
Its shows possession.
Example:
- The company changed its logo.
- The dog wagged its tail.
Easy Rule
If you can replace it’s with it is, then it’s is correct.
Memory Trick That Works
Remember this simple sentence.
It’s = It is
If your sentence still makes sense after replacing it’s with it is, you are using the correct word.
Example:
- It’s called a keyboard.
- It is called a keyboard.
Both are correct.
It’s Called in Spanish
The English phrase It’s called is commonly translated into Spanish as:
- Se llama
Examples
- It’s called Madrid.
- Se llama Madrid.
- It’s called a library.
- Se llama una biblioteca.
It’s Called Movie
Many movies include the phrase It’s Called in their dialogue or titles. However, It’s Called is not the title of one widely recognized standalone movie. If you are searching for a specific film, include the complete movie name for accurate results.
What Is Called in English?
The phrase is called is used to tell the name of a person, place, object, idea, or thing.
Examples
- This fruit is called an apple.
- This animal is called a dolphin.
- This language is called English.
- This building is called a museum.
What Is This Symbol Called in English?
People often ask this question when learning English punctuation or symbols.
Examples
- @ is called the at sign.
- is called the hashtag.
- & is called the ampersand.
- % is called the percent sign.
- is called the asterisk.
Common Mistakes
Avoid these common errors:
- Writing it called instead of it’s called.
- Confusing it’s with its.
- Forgetting that it’s means it is.
- Using contractions in formal writing when the full form is preferred.
- Omitting is before called.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it its called or it’s called?
It’s called is correct because it’s means it is. Its called is incorrect.
What does so called mean in Gen Z?
In Gen Z slang, so called often questions whether something or someone deserves a particular label. It can express doubt or sarcasm.
What is the V1, V2, V3 of call?
- V1: Call
- V2: Called
- V3: Called
What does it’s a call mean in slang?
It’s a call usually means it’s your decision or you get to choose. In casual conversation, it means someone else has the final choice.
Is “It is called” more formal than “It’s called”?
Yes. It is called is more formal and is commonly used in academic, professional, and official writing, while It’s called is more common in everyday conversation.
Conclusion
It’s called is the correct phrase when introducing the name of something because it means it is called. It called is usually incorrect on its own and should only be used when called is the main past tense verb in a complete sentence.
Remember the simple rule: if it is fits naturally, then it’s is the right choice. Understanding this small grammar difference will help you write clearer, more natural English in 2026 and beyond.
Eliana is an English language writer with 10 years of experience. She creates simple grammar guides, vocabulary tips, and writing resources for GrammerMint readers.