common curiosity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "common curiosity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a shared interest or inquiry that many people have about a particular topic or phenomenon. Example: "The common curiosity about the universe has led to numerous scientific discoveries and advancements in astronomy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Although there have been many pitches that I would have liked to have read more about, common curiosity is not a good enough reason to commission an article.

The Guardian

To read a page, a paragraph, a line from someone else's book is to bypass the common curiosity about what might be on a stranger's mind; it's to know with great certainty; it's to appropriate the language floating around in his or her thoughts.

The New York Times

We are drawn to them as they are to us, bound by a common curiosity and innate urge to explore.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

One of the most common curiosities about my lifestyle is the connection between mathematics and cooking and I get the obvious questions like, "So, you measure really precisely?" or "It must help when you are baking".

Huffington Post

The common thread, he said, is their mutual curiosity.

The New York Times - Style

The one thing each taster has in common is curiosity.

Independent

And I'm remembering the common adage: Curiosity killed the cat.

Huffington Post

And as long as common sense, curiosity about context and good faith were slow in coming, gaffes could become a bedevilment to both politicians and, more importantly, news consumers.

Huffington Post

"The common factor is curiosity," Mr. Zucker said, "and maybe a hunger for escapism".

The New York Times

"There is always a balance between a common sense and curiosity in our profession.

The Guardian

f One decorative curiosity common throughout Alsace is the questionable, 1970s-themed colours the locals have chosen to paint their otherwise perfectly-preserved, half-timbered medieval houses; minty greens, deep purples and lurid oranges abound.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "common curiosity" when you want to emphasize that an interest or question is shared by a large group of people. It suggests a collective desire to understand something.

Common error

While acceptable, "common curiosity" might sound too informal or simplistic in highly academic or professional contexts. Opt for stronger, more precise terms like "shared intellectual inquiry" or "collective research interest" for a more sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "common curiosity" functions as a noun phrase, where 'common' modifies 'curiosity'. It refers to a shared or widespread desire to know or learn something. Ludwig indicates that this phrase is valid and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "common curiosity" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that describes a shared interest or inquisitiveness. Ludwig confirms its validity and usability, noting it effectively conveys a sense of widespread interest. While "common curiosity" is generally neutral, more formal alternatives like "shared intellectual inquiry" may be preferable in academic contexts. It appears most frequently in news and media sources. When using this phrase, consider its audience and context to ensure the most appropriate tone and level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

shared interest

Focuses on the shared aspect of the interest rather than the inquisitiveness.

general interest

Highlights the widespread nature of the interest, omitting the element of inquisitiveness.

collective inquisitiveness

Highlights the shared nature of the eagerness to investigate.

universal intrigue

Emphasizes the widespread fascination or mystery surrounding a topic.

mutual fascination

Focuses on the shared enjoyment and captivation.

prevailing interest

Indicates a dominant or widespread interest.

shared thirst for knowledge

Emphasizes the communal desire for understanding and information.

widespread wonder

Stresses the feeling of amazement and awe shared by many.

public interest

Highlights that something is of concern for people in general.

communal fascination

Stresses shared captivated interest by community or group.

FAQs

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

You can use "common curiosity" to describe a shared interest or inquisitiveness. For example: "The "common curiosity" about space exploration drives scientific advancements".

What phrases are similar to "common curiosity"?

Alternatives to "common curiosity" include "shared interest", "general interest", or "public interest" depending on the context.

Is "common curiosity" formal or informal?

"Common curiosity" is generally considered neutral in formality. While appropriate for news articles and general writing, more formal language like "shared intellectual inquiry" may be preferable in academic or professional settings.

Is "common curiosity" the same as "public interest"?

While related, "common curiosity" and "public interest" are not identical. "Common curiosity" refers to a shared inquisitiveness, while "public interest" relates to matters that affect the well-being of the general public. They might overlap but not be used interchangeably.