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Be common Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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be common

[ˈkɒmən ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

in everyday life

To be common means to be prevalent or widespread in a particular area or among a particular group of people. It can also refer to something that is ordinary or not unique.

Synonyms

frequent, ordinary, prevalent, ubiquitous, widespread.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
be common

Used to describe something that is usual and found in many places or among many people.

  • Nowadays, smartphones are common.
  • Such mistakes are common among beginners.
widespread

Used to describe something that affects many people or areas.

  • The disease caused widespread panic.
  • There is widespread support for the new law.
prevalent

Used to describe something that is widespread in a particular area or at a particular time.

  • Crime is prevalent in the downtown area.
  • This illness is prevalent among young children.
ordinary

Used to describe something that is normal and not special or unusual.

  • He led an ordinary life.
  • The book offers an ordinary person's perspective on history.
ubiquitous

Used to describe something that seems to be everywhere at the same time.

  • Smartphones have become ubiquitous.
  • Plastic waste is ubiquitous in our oceans.
frequent

Used when something happens often or repeatedly.

  • Bus delays are frequent in this city.
  • Frequent practice will improve your skills.

Examples of usage

  • It is common to see people walking their dogs in the park.
  • Common sense dictates that you should look both ways before crossing the street.
  • Her taste in music is quite common among teenagers.
  • The flu is a common illness during the winter months.
  • The belief in ghosts is common in many cultures.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'be common'

The word 'common' has its origins in Middle English, coming from the Old French word 'comun'. It has been used in the English language for centuries to describe things that are shared by a group of people or things that are not rare or unique. Over time, the word has evolved to encompass a wide range of meanings, from describing everyday occurrences to referring to something that is widely known or understood.