a common response

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a common response" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing typical or frequently given answers to a question or situation. Example: "In surveys, a common response to the question about job satisfaction is that employees feel undervalued."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A common response is utter disbelief.

The New York Times

Shock and anger were a common response.

The Guardian

A common threat demands a common response.

The New York Times

But inspiration is a common response.

The New York Times - Arts

"Where do you do that?" is a common response.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Do you go round analysing people?" is a common response.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Assuming that Krazy was exclusively female was a common response.

The New Yorker

A common response to coming out of denial is suicide.

The Guardian

Hyperventilation is a common response to painful stress.

Britannica

Rapid, shallow, erratic breathing is a common response to stress.

Harvard University

Emotional distress is a common response to psychological stress.

Brain, Behavior, and Immunity

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider whether "a common response" accurately reflects the situation or if a more nuanced description of the diversity of responses is needed.

Common error

Avoid using "a common response" when the actual reactions are varied or not definitively established. Overstating the commonality can misrepresent the situation and weaken your argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a common response" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a reaction, answer or reply that is frequently observed or given in a particular situation. Ludwig provides several examples demonstrating its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a common response" is a noun phrase that denotes a typical or frequent reaction or answer. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used across various contexts, particularly in news, science, and academic writing. It is essential to use this phrase accurately, ensuring that the identified response is indeed prevalent. When writing, be mindful of overgeneralizing and consider if a more nuanced description is needed. For alternatives, consider "a typical reaction" or "a frequent reply" to add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a typical reaction

Focuses on the reaction aspect, implying a standard or expected response.

the usual response

Implies the response is what typically occurs in similar circumstances.

a usual answer

Emphasizes the answer aspect, suggesting a frequent or predictable reply.

a frequent reply

Highlights the frequency of the response, indicating it's often heard.

a general reaction

Indicates a widespread or prevalent feeling or behavior in response to something.

a standard answer

Suggests a formally accepted or recognized response.

a predictable response

Emphasizes the lack of surprise in the reaction, as it was expected.

the expected reaction

Focuses on the anticipation of a particular response.

the typical answer

Highlights that the answer is representative of a specific group or situation.

a widespread reaction

Indicates that the reaction is common across a large group of people.

FAQs

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

You can use "a common response" to describe a typical reaction or answer to a question, situation, or event. For example: "A common response to the survey was dissatisfaction with the new policy."

What's the difference between "a common response" and "a typical reaction"?

While both phrases indicate a frequent or expected reaction, "a common response" often refers to a verbal or written answer, whereas "a typical reaction" can encompass both verbal and non-verbal behaviors.

What can I say instead of "a common response"?

You can use alternatives like "a frequent reply", "a typical reaction", or "a general reaction" depending on the context.

Is it always accurate to describe something as "a common response"?

No, it's crucial to ensure that the response is indeed prevalent and not just an assumption. If there's significant variation in reactions, a more nuanced description may be necessary. Consider if the response is adequately documented or observed before labeling it as "a common response".