common cause

USAGE SUMMARY

"common cause" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You use it when referring to a mutual interest or shared goal. For example, "The environmental organization and the government shared a common cause of protecting the endangered species in the region."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Their common cause?

The Economist

They can make common cause.

The New Yorker

They could make common cause.

The New York Times

They have a common cause.

The New York Times

They are your common cause.

The Guardian

"I see common cause," he said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

Common Cause/N.J. will also run a voter help line.

The New York Times

Then: "Common Cause = Desperate last stand of the establishment".

The New York Times - Books

She is the president of Public Citizen, not Common Cause.

The New York Times

Meredith McGeehee, senior vice president of Common Cause, agreed.

The New York Times

Bob Phillips of Common Cause North Carolina was similarly jubilant.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "common cause", ensure that the context clearly defines the shared goal or purpose to avoid ambiguity. For instance, specify what brings different parties together.

Common error

Avoid using "common cause" without specifying the exact nature of the shared goal or purpose. Vague references can diminish the phrase's impact and clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "common cause" functions primarily as a noun phrase, representing a shared goal, objective, or purpose that unites individuals or groups. It serves to identify a unifying element that motivates collective action, as affirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "common cause" is a noun phrase signifying a shared goal or purpose that unites individuals or groups. As Ludwig AI affirms, it’s grammatically correct and frequently used across a broad range of contexts. Its primary function is to highlight unity and motivate collective action. While versatile, it's important to specify the exact nature of the shared objective to avoid vagueness. Predominantly found in news and media, as well as scientific publications, "common cause" is a powerful tool for emphasizing agreement and building alliances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

shared objective

Emphasizes the goal-oriented aspect, focusing on the specific outcome both parties are working towards.

mutual goal

Highlights the collaborative nature, indicating that both parties benefit from achieving the objective.

shared interest

Focuses on the benefits and advantages that each party derives from the collaboration.

unified purpose

Stresses the alignment of intentions and motivations, creating a sense of collective action.

collective aim

Highlights the collaborative effort towards a specific target or outcome.

joint venture

Implies a more formal and structured collaboration, often with business or project-related implications.

collaborative effort

Focuses on the coordinated actions and contributions of multiple parties to achieve a shared outcome.

harmonious alliance

Emphasizes the positive and cooperative nature of the partnership, highlighting the absence of conflict.

confluence of interests

Suggests that previously separate interests have converged or aligned, leading to a shared objective.

shared mission

Highlights the long-term and overarching goals that unite the parties, often associated with values or principles.

FAQs

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

You can use "common cause" to describe a shared goal or purpose that unites different individuals or groups. For example, "Despite their differences, the two organizations found "common cause" in advocating for environmental protection".

What are some alternatives to saying "common cause"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "shared objective", "mutual goal", or "unified purpose".

Is it appropriate to use "common cause" in formal writing?

Yes, "common cause" is suitable for both formal and informal writing. Its appropriateness depends more on the context and clarity of its usage than on the formality of the writing style.

What's the difference between "common cause" and "shared interest"?

"Common cause" typically implies a collaborative effort towards a specific goal, while "shared interest" suggests a mutual benefit or advantage. They are similar but "common cause" often requires more active cooperation.