a common procedure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a common procedure" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a method or process that is widely accepted or frequently followed in a particular context or field. Example: "In our laboratory, using gloves when handling chemicals is a common procedure to ensure safety."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A common procedure is to question any cheek over six months.

The New Yorker

Russia has said the US has failed to agree a common procedure on how to deal with ceasefire breaches.

The Guardian

The officer has been placed on paid administrative leave, which is a common procedure after officer-involved shootings.

The Guardian

He was using a common procedure called intrauterine insemination, which involved injecting sperm into Mrs. Stansel's uterus after hormone shots.

The New York Times

Today it is a common procedure in many countries for permanent sterilization.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Such magnetic separation is a common procedure both in the laboratory and on a commercial scale.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It might be assumed that such a common procedure would be included in a nation's plan to protect the health of its citizens.

The New Yorker

As for removing four of my permanent teeth, that was a common procedure at the time, and the dentist had made a persuasive case.

The New Yorker

Discectomy is a common procedure for treating sciatica.

The Spine Journal

Aortic valve replacement is a common procedure in elderly patients.

The Annals of Thoracic Surgery

First-trimester surgical abortion is a common procedure.

Contraception

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a common procedure", ensure the context clearly indicates the field or situation where the procedure is common. This helps avoid ambiguity and ensures the reader understands the scope of its commonality.

Common error

Avoid assuming that because something is "a common procedure" in one area, it is universally known or accepted. Specify the relevant domain or context to prevent misinterpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a common procedure" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or an appositive. It identifies a particular action or method as being widely practiced or accepted, as confirmed by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

53%

News & Media

28%

Encyclopedias

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a common procedure" is a versatile and frequently used expression to indicate that a particular method or action is widely accepted or practiced. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and finds application across diverse fields, notably in science, news media, and encyclopedias. While maintaining a neutral to formal register, the phrase serves to inform about standard practices, ensuring clarity and avoiding ambiguity by specifying the relevant context. Alternatives like "a standard practice" or "a typical method" can be used depending on the specific shade of meaning desired.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a standard practice

Emphasizes the routine and established nature of the action.

a typical method

Highlights the usual or expected way of doing something.

a widespread practice

Focuses on the broad acceptance and implementation of the action.

a routine process

Underscores the habitual and unremarkable nature of the action.

a general approach

Suggests a broad and widely applicable way of dealing with something.

a frequent operation

Highlights the high occurrence rate of the action.

an established technique

Emphasizes the proven and well-recognized nature of the action.

a prevailing custom

Implies a deeply rooted and widely observed practice.

an ordinary step

Highlights the commonplace nature of the action within a larger process.

a regular measure

Suggests a consistent and predictable action taken in response to something.

FAQs

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

You can use "a common procedure" to describe a widely accepted or frequently followed method in a particular field. For example, "In software development, code review is "a common procedure" to identify bugs early."

What are some alternatives to "a common procedure"?

Alternatives include "a standard practice", "a typical method", or "a routine process", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to specify the context when using "a common procedure"?

While not always necessary, specifying the context clarifies the scope of the procedure's commonality. This is especially important if the procedure might not be widely known outside a specific field.

How does "a common procedure" differ from "an industry standard"?

"A common procedure" refers to a practice that is frequently followed, while "an industry standard" implies a more formalized and widely accepted benchmark within a specific industry. An industry standard often has documented specifications and certifications, which are typically not necessary for "a common procedure".