based on common sense

USAGE SUMMARY

"based on common sense" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to draw a conclusion based on what most people would consider to be logical and reasonable. For example, "Given the overwhelming evidence of the project's success, it stands to reason that additional funding should be allocated, based on common sense."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

And that means you've got to have a broad-based support, one that is credible and based on common sense and I am sure he recognises that".

The Economist

As with many components of any novel transition requiring a new or different neuromuscular control pattern and altered loading, many practices are based on common sense moreso than evidence-based practice and should be interpreted with caution.

Sports Medicine - Open

However, some doctors believed that this contraindication appeared to be based on "common sense" and consensus rather than evidence-based practice, in vivo.

BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders

"It is based on common sense".

The New York Times

"My view on issues is based on common sense".

The Guardian

Much of parenting is based on common sense and instinct.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

The investigations further found that the philosophical underpinnings of the case companies' CSR were based on 'Common-Sense Morality,' a duty-based deontological moral philosophy that is a departure from widely held instrumental positions associated with Egoism.

International Journal of Corporate Social Responsibility

But recent revelations about the health department's internal debate over its antisoda campaign have underlined complaints that Dr. Farley's more lifestyle-oriented crusades are based on common-sense bromides that may not withstand strict scientific scrutiny.

The New York Times

However, Frederiksen (2009) concluded that CSR policies were based on common-sense morality.

International Journal of Corporate Social Responsibility

In [9], the authors propose an automatic method to generate new triples of knowledge based on common-sense metarules.

Journal of the Brazilian Computer Society

Payments are based on common-sense factors, such as the revenues of a station and the sorts of music it plays.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When clarifying a complex topic, using the phrase "based on common sense" can reassure your audience that the core ideas are straightforward and practical.

Common error

Avoid using "based on common sense" as a substitute for empirical evidence or rigorous analysis. While it can be a valid starting point, always ensure it's backed by data or sound reasoning, especially in formal or scientific contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "based on common sense" functions as a post-modifier, typically describing a decision, action, or belief. Ludwig's analysis indicates its widespread use in attributing rationale that is easily understood and generally accepted.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

40%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "based on common sense" is a versatile and frequently used expression to convey that a decision or idea is rooted in practicality and general understanding. According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, though it appears most frequently in News & Media and Science. While the phrase effectively communicates intuitive reasoning, over-reliance without supporting evidence should be avoided. Alternatives like "grounded in practical reasoning" or "derived from sound judgment" can provide a more formal tone. Ultimately, "based on common sense" serves as a valuable tool for articulating rationale that resonates with a broad audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

grounded in practical reasoning

Emphasizes the use of logic and practicality as the foundation.

derived from sound judgment

Focuses on the quality of discernment and good decision-making.

predicated on reasonableness

Highlights the aspect of being fair and sensible.

stemming from logical thought

Emphasizes the rational and analytical aspect of the decision.

informed by pragmatic considerations

Stresses the practical and realistic elements influencing a decision.

guided by sensible thinking

Implies a thoughtful and judicious approach.

founded on realistic expectations

Highlights the importance of having achievable and practical goals.

built upon rational principles

Stresses the application of reason and logic as the basic elements.

rooted in everyday wisdom

Connects the decision to accumulated, practical knowledge.

based on a no-brainer approach

Suggests a straightforward and obvious conclusion, somewhat informal.

FAQs

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

You can use "based on common sense" to indicate that a decision, conclusion, or action is logical and practical, such as, "The decision to evacuate the building was "based on common sense" given the approaching storm."

What are some alternatives to "based on common sense"?

Some alternatives include "grounded in practical reasoning", "derived from sound judgment", or "predicated on reasonableness".

Is it appropriate to use "based on common sense" in formal writing?

Yes, but use it judiciously. While "based on common sense" is understandable, ensure that the underlying reasoning is clear and, when possible, supported by evidence. More formal alternatives might be preferable depending on the context.

What does it mean when something is described as "based on common sense"?

It means that the idea, decision, or action is logical, practical, and easily understood by most people. It suggests that it's an intuitive conclusion "stemming from logical thought" rather than complex analysis.