adjective
so-called
Known by a particular name, sometimes with doubt about its accuracy.
The so-called shortcut takes us twice as long as the highway.
Etymology
The compound means called by that name. It can simply identify the name or distance the speaker from accepting the label as accurate.
More examples
- Her so-called friends never call when she needs help.
- The so-called gig economy includes many freelance and temporary jobs.
- Photographers love the soft light of the so-called blue hour.
Forms
so-called