Common Meaning
Common Definition & Usage
Ordinary, frequent, or widely encountered.
Examples
- "It's common for people to take vacations in the summer."
- "Public transportation is a common sight in big cities."
- "She wore a common black dress to the event."
- "It's common knowledge that the Earth orbits the Sun."
- "They have a common interest in art."
Having shared characteristics or belonging to the same group.
Examples
- "They come from common backgrounds, which makes them easily relate to each other."
- "The two families had a common ancestor."
- "His love for technology is a common trait among teenagers."
- "Despite their different careers, they share a common love for music."
- "There are many common interests between the two countries."
A shared or collective resource, often used in the plural form.
Examples
- "The town council decided to preserve the common for public use."
- "In the past, many communities had common lands for farming."
- "The children played in the common areas of the housing complex."
- "The decision to improve the common spaces was welcomed by everyone."
- "They fought for the rights to use the common areas of the building."
Cultural Context
The word 'common' originates from the Latin 'commune,' meaning 'shared by all.' Over time, it has evolved into various meanings, from describing general occurrences to referring to shared human experiences or resources.
The Common Ground
Story
The Common Ground
It was a crisp autumn afternoon when Sarah and Jake met on the common lawn of their small village. They hadn't known each other before, but their shared interest in gardening had brought them to this community event. The town had recently decided to convert the old, unused plot of land into a public garden, and Sarah, having been a passionate gardener for years, was eager to join the initiative. 'It’s great to see the community coming together like this,' Sarah said, gesturing to the crowd that had gathered. 'There’s something special about creating something for everyone.' Jake, who had recently moved to the village, nodded in agreement. 'It’s not very common to see people get involved like this in the city. I think it’s a good way to connect with the community.' As they worked side by side, planting herbs and vegetables, Sarah and Jake learned more about each other. Both came from humble beginnings, and their shared background of growing up in small towns gave them a lot to talk about. 'We have a common appreciation for nature,' Sarah remarked. 'Not everyone understands how soothing it is to plant a seed and watch it grow.' Later that evening, as they stood together admiring the finished garden, Sarah said, 'It’s amazing how something so simple can bring so many people together. This garden will be a common space for all of us to enjoy.' 'Yes,' Jake agreed. 'A common space, a common goal, and a common love for the earth. It’s what makes us feel connected to one another.' The event ended with a warm feeling of community, and both Sarah and Jake walked home, feeling grateful for their new friendship. They realized that sometimes, what’s common—whether it’s a shared interest or a collective effort—can make all the difference in the world.