Synonyms for

Common

Verb / ˈkɑ:mʌn / Another word for common — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

belonging to or shared by two or more people or groups; occurring frequently; ordinary

Synonyms & similar words

uncouth coarse commons vernacular unwashed uncommon roughcut park individual vulgar usual green plebeian mutual usual typical ordinary frequent everyday widespread popular general shared mutual collective joint public global universal standard conventional customary traditional routine

Synonyms by register

Formal

ordinary standard prevalent widespread typical

Informal

everyday regular normal usual plain

Literary

familiar quotidian ubiquitous

Antonyms

rare unusual scarce unique singular exceptional infrequent

Common collocations

  • common ground
  • common sense
  • common knowledge
  • common practice
  • common occurrence
  • common law
  • common goal
  • common thread

Word family

noun commonness
adjective common

Usage note

The word 'common' can refer to something widespread or shared. Be mindful of its use in formal contexts where 'ordinary' or 'standard' might be more appropriate.

Example sentences

  1. It is common for dogs to bark.
  2. We have a common goal.
  3. The cold is a common illness in winter.
  4. Reading is a common hobby.
  5. We share a common interest in music.

Quotes

  • In common with many others, I loved the poetic justice of it.
  • In common with many parents all over America, I was horrified.
  • The common people have always had good reason to be suspicious of pompous phrases.

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