In common parlance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "In common parlance" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to the way language is commonly spoken or understood by the general public. Example: "In common parlance, the term 'hacker' often refers to someone who breaks into computer systems, rather than a skilled programmer."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In common parlance, this means "Where's the big bug gone?," but that would break the mood.

The New Yorker

In common parlance, to be uncertain is simply to be unsure about the future.

The New Yorker

In common parlance, bankruptcy is often used more casually, to mean something like broke or insolvent.

The New York Times

In common parlance, a myth is a story about gods or otherworldly beings.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"In common parlance, watching a television show does not entail 'radio communication,' " Judge Bybee wrote.

The New York Times - Tech

In common parlance, "the tickets are on me" means "I paid for them" — not "I finagled them".

The New York Times

In common parlance, this means that when the jet stream undulates and travels very slowly, we see more extreme weather.

The Guardian

In common parlance, it is taken to mean that young people are enabled to get a feel for what it's like to work.

The Guardian

In common parlance, it's all dust, said Richard Flagan, the chairman of the chemical engineering department at the California Institute of Technology.

The New York Times

In common parlance, however, the call sign has become identified with specific aircraft reserved for use by the president for travel within the United States or abroad.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In common parlance (and unfortunately in some botanical textbooks), staminate flowers and plants that bear them are often designated "male," and pistillate flowers and the plants that bear them are called "female".

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "In common parlance", ensure that the common understanding you are referring to is indeed widely accepted and not a misinterpretation or outdated notion.

Common error

Avoid using "In common parlance" as a substitute for clear definition, especially when addressing diverse audiences or discussing topics where common understandings may vary significantly. Always confirm the meaning for your target demographic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "In common parlance" functions as a discourse marker, signaling that the speaker or writer is about to explain a term or concept as it is generally understood by the public. Ludwig AI confirms this usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "In common parlance" is a versatile phrase used to introduce the generally accepted understanding of a term, as supported by Ludwig AI. Its usage spans across diverse fields like news, encyclopedias, and science, indicating its broad applicability. While grammatically correct and frequently employed, it's important to ensure that the intended "common" understanding is indeed widespread. Alternatives like "in everyday language" or "in layman's terms" can provide similar clarification. Remember, clarify assumptions with direct definitions for diverse audiences and be mindful that 'common parlance' can have different meanings for different people.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

In everyday language

Replaces "parlance" with a more informal term, focusing on daily communication.

In layman's terms

Substitutes "common parlance" with a phrase specifically indicating simplification for a non-expert audience.

In plain English

Similar to "layman's terms" but emphasizes clarity and directness in the English language.

As it is commonly understood

Focuses on the general understanding of a concept, rather than the specific wording.

In general usage

Highlights how a term is typically used by most people.

Popularly speaking

Emphasizes the widespread, informal use of a term.

As people usually say

A more conversational way to introduce a common understanding.

In the vernacular

Uses a slightly more sophisticated term ("vernacular") to refer to common speech.

In the public's understanding

Highlights the comprehension of the general public.

In ordinary speech

Focuses on the casual, everyday use of language.

FAQs

How do you use "In common parlance" in a sentence?

You can use "In common parlance" to introduce a simplified or widely understood definition of a term. For example, "In common parlance, 'cloud computing' refers to storing and accessing data and programs over the Internet instead of your computer's hard drive."

What's the difference between "In common parlance" and "In layman's terms"?

"In common parlance" refers to the way a term is generally used or understood, while "In layman's terms" specifically implies simplifying complex jargon for a non-expert audience.

What can I say instead of "In common parlance"?

You can use alternatives like "In everyday language", "In general usage", or "As it is commonly understood" depending on the context.

Is "In common parlance" formal or informal?

"In common parlance" sits in a neutral to slightly formal register. It's suitable for most writing contexts where you want to clarify a term's general understanding without being overly casual.