a common argument

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a common argument" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a frequently expressed point of view or reasoning in discussions or debates. Example: "In the debate about climate change, a common argument is that immediate action is necessary to prevent further damage to the environment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A common argument against the change is potential negative impacts on working household members.

Journal of Transport Geography

There's a common argument that's had some sympathy in the US courts that code is speech.

The Guardian - Opinion

It was a common argument at the time, at least in intellectual Labour circles.

The Guardian

A common argument among the dot-com cognoscenti is that employees can have a greater impact at a start-up.

The New York Times

A common argument for vouchers is that they improve public schools by forcing them to compete for students.

The New York Times

A common argument says that the share of foreigners is high because Swiss naturalization is rather complicated.

The New York Times

They are not Indian restaurants in the proper sense of the word". It is a common argument.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

A common argument was that the government had imposed much of its tax collection responsibility on the taxpayers.

The New York Times

"Just a theory" is a common argument from those whose views are threatened by science, most notably fundamentalists and the "theory" of evolution.

The Guardian

It is, for example, a common argument that Evans must never resume his job because he is a "role model" to young men.

The Guardian - Opinion

Challenging a common argument that hands-free phones are safer, they also reported that it was the conversation, not just the use of the phone, that distracted drivers.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a common argument", ensure that the argument is genuinely prevalent in the context you're discussing. Avoid presenting it as common if it's merely a niche viewpoint.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the commonality of an argument to strengthen your own point. If an argument is not genuinely widespread, accurately represent its prevalence to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a common argument" functions as a noun phrase, typically used to introduce or refer to a widely held belief or point of view. Ludwig provides examples of this usage across various domains, confirming its role in academic, news, and general discourse.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a common argument" is a widely used phrase to introduce prevalent viewpoints across various contexts. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and frequently found in news, scientific, and formal writing. When employing this phrase, ensure that the argument you're referencing is genuinely widespread to maintain credibility. Consider using alternatives such as "a frequent contention" or "a widespread belief" to add nuance to your writing. By understanding its function, purpose, and register, you can effectively integrate "a common argument" into your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a frequent contention

Replaces "argument" with "contention", emphasizing the disputable nature of the point.

a typical assertion

Substitutes "argument" with "assertion", highlighting the act of stating something as fact.

a widespread belief

Replaces "argument" with "belief", focusing on the acceptance of the idea by many people.

a recurring claim

Uses "claim" instead of "argument", suggesting a statement that needs to be proven.

a popular viewpoint

Emphasizes the perspective or opinion that is commonly held.

a prevailing notion

Highlights the widespread acceptance of an idea or concept.

a familiar refrain

Suggests that the argument is repeated often and has become predictable.

a well-known rationale

Focuses on the reasoning behind a common practice or belief.

a conventional wisdom

Indicates an argument that is widely accepted but may not necessarily be true.

a standard line of reasoning

Highlights that a particular method of thought is broadly accepted or applied.

FAQs

How can I use "a common argument" in a sentence?

You can use "a common argument" to introduce a viewpoint that is frequently expressed in a particular discussion. For example, "A common argument against stricter gun control laws is that they infringe upon the Second Amendment".

What are some alternatives to saying "a common argument"?

You can use alternatives like "a frequent claim", "a widespread belief", or "a recurring theme" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "a common argument" in writing?

Use "a common argument" when you want to acknowledge a prevailing viewpoint, especially if you plan to address it or offer a counterargument. It's useful in essays, debates, and analytical pieces.

Is there a difference between "a common argument" and "the standard argument"?

"A common argument" refers to a frequently expressed viewpoint, while "the standard argument" implies that it's the most accepted or typical argument, even if it's not necessarily the most frequently voiced.