A1adjective1K

Common

UK /["/ˈkɒmən/"]/US /["/ˈkɑːmən/"]/

Definition

happening often; existing in large numbers or in many places

In simple words: Something that happens often or is found everywhere.

Examples

  • It's common to see people wearing masks during flu season.
  • They share a common interest in hiking and outdoor activities.
  • In many cultures, it is common to greet someone with a handshake.
  • The common name for the animal is the red fox.
  • Tigers are common in some parts of Asia.

Usage notes

Use 'common' to describe something typical or usual. It's appropriate in both spoken and written English, but avoid using it in very formal contexts where a more precise term may be better.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'common' like 'comin' together' – things we see a lot.

Collocations

  • be
  • seem
  • become
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very
  • among
  • in
  • be
  • to
  • have something in common
  • hold something in common
  • in common with
  • be
  • seem
  • sound
  • very
  • a bit
  • rather

Synonyms

  • ordinary
  • typical
  • usual
  • frequent
  • regular

Antonyms

  • rare
  • unusual
  • infrequent

Common mistakes

  • Confused with ' uncommon' which means rare.
  • Using as a noun instead of an adjective.
  • Mispronouncing as 'com-man' instead of 'kom-un'.