a common saying

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a common saying" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a phrase or expression that is widely recognized and often repeated in conversation or writing. Example: "As the old adage goes, 'A penny saved is a penny earned,' which is a common saying that emphasizes the importance of saving money."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Without açaí, I'm still hungry" is a common saying.

The New Yorker

It is a common saying that men can have children at high ages.

Princeton University

There's a common saying: When you hear hoof beats, think horses, not zebras.

The New York Times - Magazine

"Only believe something when the government denies it," is a common saying.

The Guardian - Opinion

There is a common saying in Israel: elections are not won; they are lost.

The New Yorker

A common saying on Capitol Hill was that there are actually three parties in Congress — Republicans, Democrats and Appropriators.

The New York Times

There's a common saying in education that we should teach students how to think, not what to think.

The Washington Post

It is a common saying that you are not really Mexican unless you believe in the Virgin of Guadalupe.

The New York Times

As a common saying goes, "Big cities depend on land, small towns depend on birth planning," for money.

The New Yorker

A common saying in Mexico about police investigations and government inquiries goes "no pasa nada," or "nothing happens".

The New York Times

As Aristotle reports, it became a common saying that the tyranny of Peisistratus had been the age of Cronus, the golden age.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When introducing "a common saying", provide context or explain its relevance to your argument to enhance clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid relying too heavily on "a common saying" as a substitute for original thought. Ensure its use adds value rather than serving as filler.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a common saying" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject complement or object of a verb. It identifies and introduces a well-known expression or proverb, as seen in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Academia

16%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Science

7%

Formal & Business

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a common saying" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and applicability across various contexts. It functions as a noun phrase to introduce well-known expressions, with primary usage in news and media, academic writing, and wiki content. While versatile, it's important to avoid overuse and ensure the chosen saying enhances the message. Related alternatives include "a popular expression" and "a well-known adage".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a popular expression

Replaces "saying" with a more general term, focusing on widespread acceptance.

a well-known adage

Substitutes "saying" with "adage", emphasizing the wisdom or truth conveyed.

a frequently quoted phrase

Highlights the repetition aspect of the saying.

a familiar expression

Focuses on the recognizability of the saying.

a widely used expression

Emphasizes the broad adoption of the phrase.

a standard phrase

Implies that the saying is a conventional or typical expression.

a prevalent expression

Indicates widespread existence of the saying.

a typical saying

Suggests that the saying is representative of a certain type of expression.

a traditional proverb

Replaces saying with proverb, highlighting cultural or historical significance.

a generally accepted truism

Emphasizes the widespread belief in the truth of the saying.

FAQs

How can I use "a common saying" effectively in writing?

To effectively use "a common saying", ensure it directly supports your argument and resonates with your audience. Provide context if the saying might be unfamiliar, and avoid overuse to maintain originality.

What are some alternatives to "a common saying"?

You can use alternatives like "a popular expression", "a well-known adage", or "a frequently quoted phrase" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a common saying" in formal writing?

While "a common saying" can be used in formal writing, consider your audience and the overall tone. Ensure the saying enhances your message rather than detracting from its formality. More formal alternatives might be preferable.

How do I avoid clichés when using "a common saying"?

To avoid clichés, use "a common saying" sparingly and only when it adds unique insight or perspective. Consider rephrasing the saying in your own words to make it feel fresh and original.