Commonly: meaning, definitions and examples

🌟

Add to dictionary

commonly

[ˈkɒmənli ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

used in everyday language

Frequently or generally; usually; by most people

Synonyms

frequently, often, usually.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
commonly	Typically used when referring to something that occurs in general or is widespread. These errors are commonly made by beginners. It is commonly believed that cats have nine lives.
often	Used when something happens many times, but not necessarily at regular intervals. I often go for walks in the evening. He is often late to work.
frequently	Used to describe actions or events that happen many times over a particular period. She frequently visits her grandmother. This issue frequently comes up in our meetings.
usually	Used to talk about what normally or regularly happens, with a bit more expectation of regularity. She usually arrives at 8 AM. We usually have dinner at 7 PM.

Examples of usage

He commonly gets up early in the morning.
She commonly takes the bus to work.
It is commonly known that exercise is good for health.

^{Context #2 | Adverb}

used in statistics or research

In a way that occurs frequently or is widely observed

Synonyms

generally, typically, usually.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
commonly	Used to describe something that happens often but not always. It indicates regularity without certitude. This disease is commonly found in tropical regions. People commonly believe that breakfast is the most important meal of the day.
typically	Used to describe a standard or usual occurrence, often stressing conformity to a norm or model. Summers are typically hot in this region. He typically arrives at work by 9 AM.
generally	Used to indicate a broad generalization, often with some exceptions. It is suitable when making a statement that applies most of the time but not always. Generally, students find this course easy to pass. Old cars generally consume more fuel than new ones.
usually	Used to describe something that happens most of the time under normal circumstances. It's suitable for habitual actions or routines. She usually goes for a run in the morning. We usually have dinner around 7 PM.

Examples of usage

This disease commonly affects older adults.
Commonly, the results of the study show a positive correlation.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word traces back to Old French 'comun' and Latin 'communis', both meaning 'shared' or 'belonging to all'.
Interestingly, 'common' was used to describe things owned by the public, like common land shared by the community.

Language Usage

'Commonly' is often used in academic writing to indicate frequency or regular occurrence.
In everyday language, using 'commonly' can help make statements clearer, like saying 'commonly accepted practices' to convey widely recognized ideas.

Cultural References

In many cultures, the idea of 'common' signifies shared values or traditions, emphasizing community bonds.
The phrase 'common knowledge' refers to information that is widely understood or accepted within a group.

Psychology

People often tend to gravitate towards 'commonly' held beliefs, as social confirmation can provide comfort and validation.
The repetition and familiarity of common behaviors can reinforce habits, making them feel more normal or acceptable.

Pop Culture

In songs and films, themes of 'common' experiences or feelings often resonate with audiences, making them feel relatable.
Many popular expressions refer to the idea of 'commonality', such as in 'We have this in common!' which emphasizes shared experiences.

Translations

Translations of the word "commonly" in other languages:

🇵🇹 comumente

🇮🇳 सामान्यतः

🇩🇪 gewöhnlich

🇮🇩 umumnya

🇺🇦 зазвичай

🇵🇱 zwykle

🇯🇵 一般に

🇫🇷 couramment

🇪🇸 comúnmente

🇹🇷 genellikle

🇰🇷 일반적으로

🇸🇦 عموماً

🇨🇿 běžně

🇸🇰 bežne

🇨🇳 通常

🇸🇮 običajno

🇮🇸 almennt

🇰🇿 әдетте

🇬🇪 ჩვეულებრივ

🇦🇿 ümumiyyətlə

🇲🇽 comúnmente

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,992, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.

...
1989 elsewhere
1990 accident
1991 hon
1992 commonly
1993 ended
1994 instructions
1995 alleged
...