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also called
/ˈɔlsoʊ kɔld/
alternatively named
The disease, also called COVID-19, spread rapidly worldwide.
The disease, which has another name, COVID-19, spread rapidly worldwide.
neutral
used to introduce another name for someone or something
The plant, also called lavender, is known for its calming scent.
The plant, which has another name, lavender, is known for its calming scent.
The company, also called TechCorp, was founded in 2010.
The company, which has another name, TechCorp, was founded in 2010.
Commonly used in formal and informal contexts to provide an alternative name for a person, place, or thing.
Collocations
also known asanother phrase with the same meaningreferred to asa synonym for the phrase
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Use in definitions
This phrase is useful when defining terms or explaining alternative names. For example, 'The chemical compound, also called sodium chloride, is commonly known as table salt.'
Gold Rule
Clarity in naming
Use 'also called' to introduce a more common or technical name after mentioning the subject. Avoid using it redundantly or when the alternative name is not widely recognized.
Word Origin
The phrase 'also called' combines the adverb 'also' (from Old English 'eallswa', meaning 'in the same way') and the past participle 'called' (from Old English 'c(e)allian', meaning 'to summon or name'). The phrase emerged in Middle English as a way to introduce alternative names.
Usage Notes
This phrase is typically used to provide an alternative name for something already mentioned. It is common in both written and spoken English, particularly in formal definitions, scientific contexts, and everyday conversation.
Word Breakdown
also
in addition; likewise
adverbcalled
named or referred to as
past participleEnglish Dictionary