common denominator

USAGE SUMMARY

"common denominator" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to describe something that is shared by two or more elements, or to describe the lowest common multiple of two or more numbers. For example, one of the common denominators between Canadians and Australians is a love of sports.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The common denominator: grandiosity.

The New York Times

It's a common denominator".

The New York Times

Find the common denominator.

The New York Times

Their common denominator?

The Economist

"That's the common denominator".

The New York Times - Sports

The common denominator here?

The Washington Post

The common denominator is fear.

The New Yorker

(Their common denominator: 1980s pop).

The New York Times

Joy is the common denominator.

The New York Times - Travel

"What's the common denominator here?

The New York Times - Sports

Sport is the common denominator.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "common denominator" to identify shared traits or elements that connect seemingly disparate concepts or groups.

Common error

Avoid using "common denominator" when referring to unique or distinguishing features. It should only be used for shared attributes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "common denominator" functions as a noun phrase. It identifies a shared characteristic or element among different entities. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating this usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

10%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "common denominator" is a widely used and grammatically sound expression that identifies shared characteristics or unifying elements. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and provides numerous examples across diverse contexts, mainly within news and academic spheres. While the phrase is versatile, it’s important to use it accurately to refer to shared attributes rather than unique ones. Alternatives such as "shared attribute" or "unifying factor" can offer nuanced variations depending on the intended meaning. Its frequency and authoritative sources underscore its relevance in both formal and general communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

common ground

Emphasizes areas of agreement or shared understanding between different parties.

common thread

Suggests a recurring theme or element that runs through different situations.

unifying factor

Emphasizes the role of the element in bringing different things together.

shared characteristic

Directly refers to a trait that is possessed by multiple entities.

shared attribute

Focuses on the shared characteristic itself rather than the concept of a unifying element.

central theme

Implies a recurring and important idea that ties different aspects together.

connecting link

Highlights the connection or relationship facilitated by the shared element.

meeting point

Suggests a place or concept where different things converge or agree.

underlying principle

Highlights the foundational idea or rule that is common across different instances.

lowest common multiple

Specifically refers to the smallest number that is a multiple of two or more numbers, particularly in a mathematical context.

FAQs

How to use "common denominator" in a sentence?

You can use "common denominator" to point out shared traits. For instance, "A love of nature is the "common denominator" among the members of the hiking club."

What can I say instead of "common denominator"?

You can use alternatives like "shared attribute", "unifying factor", or "common ground" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "common denominator" or "lowest common denominator"?

While both phrases are valid, "lowest common denominator" specifically refers to the smallest shared multiple in mathematics. "Common denominator" is more general and applicable to shared traits or factors.

What's the difference between "common denominator" and "common factor"?

"Common denominator" often implies a unifying element that brings different things together, while "common factor" simply indicates a shared element or influence.