how do you call

[mmasny]

Is the expression in the title correct? I often say it instead of "what do you call sth.", it's a polonism and is hard for me to overcome. But I googled it and there is a bunch of hits, so maybe it's as correct?

[sarat_106]

Is the expression in the title correct? I often say it instead of "what do you call sth.", it's a polonism and is hard for me to overcome. But I googled it and there is a bunch of hits, so maybe it's as correct?

It is correct.
What do you call something ?
‘What’ is .an interrogative pronoun. So the answer will be a noun referring to what; as:
What do call something that is made in Poland?
A: a Polish toy, a Polish car.

how do you call something?
‘How’ is an interrogative adverb. So it means to dwscribe the way of your action; as:
How do you call your dog?
A: I whistle and then offer him something to eat.

[mmasny]

But I use this way:
"How do you call that little thing in English?"
So, I mean "what's its name?" Is that wrong? Or maybe rather: how wrong is it?

[sarat_106]

But I use this way:
"How do you call that little thing in English?"
So, I mean "what's its name?" Is that wrong? Or maybe rather: how wrong is it?

I am afraid it is not the correct interpretation. The correct one is: do you call by its name or by some signal or sound.
How do you call your girl friend? Is it by her family name or some nick name you have given?
What is your girlfriend’s name? Answer: It is Ane.
How do you call her? I call her by the same name.
Just for a change, let us use another action verb.
How do you make tea?
You have to describe your action(not the make of the tea), starting from boiling water to adding tea dust, sugar and milk.
Take another example:
How do you treat a burn?
Answer: Minor burns will heal without much medical attention(action), but severe burns require special care to prevent infection and reduce the severity of scarring. Follow these steps(actions) to treat someone who has been burned.

[Raymott]

But I use this way:
"How do you call that little thing in English?"
So, I mean "what's its name?" Is that wrong? Or maybe rather: how wrong is it?

It's understandable. A person might not even remark on it, but you'll sound like a foreigner.