as a matter of common knowledge

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as a matter of common knowledge" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is widely known or accepted by most people. Example: "As a matter of common knowledge, water freezes at 0 degrees Celsius."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Again, as is a matter of common knowledge, a prison, with its thriving trade in illegal substances, is really the last place an addict should be sent.

Independent

THE PRESIDENT: That's a matter of common knowledge.

Yale University

Whereas deflagration-to-detonation transition in confined systems is a matter of common knowledge, feasibility of the transition in unconfined space is still a matter of controversy.

Combustion and Flame

In this area the danger of coercion and reprisals—economic and otherwise—is a matter of common knowledge.

Cornell University

The possibility of a small child choking on nearly all food items is, or should be, a matter of common knowledge to all adults.

Harvard University

— that it was shutting its big mouth "as a matter of common decency".

The New Yorker

We all instinctively know that, as a matter of common sense.

The Guardian - Opinion

"The 19th century world regarded reusing materials as a matter of common sense, of stewardship of material goods," Strasser said.

Harvard University

So the truth and general knowledge of these truisms is a matter of common sense.

SEP

As he sees it, it's simply a matter of common sense.

Los Angeles Times

Others are matters of common knowledge to those familiar with the ice business.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as a matter of common knowledge" to introduce facts or assumptions that are widely accepted and require no further explanation within your writing. It provides a smooth transition and establishes a shared understanding with the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "as a matter of common knowledge" too frequently in formal or academic writing. Relying too heavily on this phrase can make your argument seem less rigorous, as it may imply that you are not providing sufficient evidence or justification for your claims.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as a matter of common knowledge" functions as an introductory phrase or discourse marker. It prefaces information the speaker or writer assumes is already known by the audience. As Ludwig AI shows, this phrase appears in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

Science

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Formal & Business

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as a matter of common knowledge" is a versatile phrase used to introduce information presumed to be widely understood. Ludwig AI confirms it's grammatically sound, serving as a discourse marker to establish shared understanding and set the stage for further discussion. While generally acceptable, overuse in formal writing should be avoided. Consider using direct evidence instead. As there are no example usages available, the contexts in which it may be frequently found is unknown.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it's common knowledge

This alternative is a more concise way of expressing the same idea, omitting the "as a matter of" part for brevity.

it is widely known

This alternative replaces "common knowledge" with "widely known", focusing on the extent of awareness.

everyone knows

This is a more direct and informal way of stating that something is generally understood.

it's a well-known fact

This alternative uses "well-known fact" to emphasize the established nature of the information.

it's universally accepted

This emphasizes agreement on the matter rather than just awareness.

it goes without saying

This alternative suggests that the information is so obvious it doesn't need to be stated.

it's understood

This alternative focuses on the implicit understanding of the information.

it's generally recognized

This alternative emphasizes the formal acknowledgement of the information.

it's public knowledge

This alternative highlights that the information is accessible to anyone.

it's no secret

This alternative suggests the information is openly available and not concealed.

FAQs

How can I use "as a matter of common knowledge" in a sentence?

You can use "as a matter of common knowledge" to introduce a fact that is generally known and accepted. For example: "As a matter of common knowledge, the Earth revolves around the Sun."

What are some alternatives to "as a matter of common knowledge"?

Some alternatives include "it's common knowledge", "it is widely known", or "everyone knows".

Is "as a matter of common knowledge" appropriate for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, overuse of "as a matter of common knowledge" in formal writing can make your arguments seem less supported. Consider providing specific evidence instead.

What is the difference between "as a matter of common knowledge" and "common sense"?

"As a matter of common knowledge" refers to information widely known, whereas "common sense" refers to sound practical judgment concerning everyday matters. They both relate to shared understanding but address different aspects; you could say: "it's a matter of common sense".