a common sense

USAGE SUMMARY

'a common sense' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone who shows good judgment and makes decisions based on intelligence and wisdom. For example, "Carol is a highly successful entrepreneur. She uses her common sense to make good business decisions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

"That's a common sense position".

The New York Times

It's a common sense approach.

The Guardian - Sport

"She's using a common sense phonetic test".

The New York Times

It is a common sense decision based on a common sense approach," he said.

The Guardian

Osborne says the status quo is a common sense position.

The Guardian

"It is about taking a common sense approach.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

25 human-written examples

This is a common-sense approach.

The New York Times

He's a common-sense mayor.

The New York Times

"This is a common-sense case".

The New York Times

Levy is a common-sense sort.

The New Yorker

"It's just a common-sense approach".

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a common sense", ensure the context clearly indicates that the subject possesses sound judgment and practical intelligence applicable to the situation being described.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "a common sense" is universally shared; what seems obvious to one person might not be to another due to differing experiences or perspectives. Always provide context or explanation when discussing potentially sensitive or complex issues.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a common sense" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as a direct object, subject complement, or part of a prepositional phrase. It refers to the inherent ability to perceive, understand, and judge things in a reasonable way, as affirmed by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

33%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a common sense" is a noun phrase used to describe the ability to make reasonable judgments based on practical intelligence. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English. It's commonly found in news, science, and general discussions, making it versatile in various contexts. While widely applicable, it's important to remember that "a common sense" isn't universally shared and should be used with consideration for different perspectives. Related phrases include "sound judgment" and "practical wisdom". Remember to provide context for clarity and avoid assuming that everyone shares the same understanding. When in doubt, Ludwig can help you ensure that your usage is both appropriate and effective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

good sense

A more concise alternative emphasizing general sensibility and reason.

practical intelligence

Focuses on the ability to solve problems and adapt to everyday life.

sound judgment

Highlights the quality of making sensible decisions and evaluations.

reasonableness

Highlights the quality of being fair, logical, and sensible.

clear-headedness

Highlights the ability to think clearly and rationally, free from confusion.

practical wisdom

Emphasizes the wisdom aspect of common sense, focusing on experience and practicality.

down-to-earth thinking

Emphasizes practicality and a realistic approach to problem-solving.

level-headedness

Focuses on emotional stability and clear thinking in decision-making.

street smarts

Refers to the intelligence gained from life experiences, especially in urban environments.

horse sense

An informal term for practical common sense, often related to rural or agricultural contexts.

FAQs

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

You can use "a common sense" to describe someone's ability to make reasonable and practical decisions. For example, "She used "a common sense" approach to solving the problem."

What does it mean to have "a common sense"?

Having "a common sense" implies possessing sound judgment, practical intelligence, and the ability to understand and navigate everyday situations effectively. It often involves making decisions based on logic and experience.

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

You can use alternatives like "sound judgment", "practical wisdom", or "good sense" depending on the context.

Is "common sense" always the best approach?

While "a common sense" is valuable, it's not always the best approach in complex or specialized situations that require expert knowledge or nuanced understanding. Sometimes, relying solely on "a common sense" can lead to oversimplified or incorrect conclusions.