common elements

USAGE SUMMARY

"common elements" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to shared features, characteristics, or qualities that two or more things have in common. For example, "The two stories share certain common elements, such as a strong theme of justice and a memorable main character."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They all share common elements.

Nature

Next, make a list of common elements.

The New York Times

Some common elements tie the slayings together.

The New York Times

"By focusing on these common elements, we've advanced our understanding".

The New York Times - Health

Did the raids have common elements of violence or danger?

The Washington Post

Among the Governors' programs, there are many common elements.

The New York Times

Despite their diverse origins, the dances had common elements.

The New York Times - Arts

There are actually some strong common elements here.

University of California, Berkeley

Interventions, whether traditional or contemporary, share some common elements.

Harvard University

Common elements characterize and unify all Vietnamese music.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Dislocations of space, time, and scale were common elements.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing multiple items, clearly state what the "common elements" are to avoid ambiguity. For instance, "The "common elements" in these novels include themes of isolation and redemption".

Common error

Avoid stating that things have "common elements" without specifying what those elements are. Vague statements like "These projects share "common elements"" lack informative value.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "common elements" functions primarily as a noun phrase, identifying shared characteristics or features among multiple entities or concepts. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its use in various contexts, from literature and science to design and general comparisons.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Academia

23%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Science

11%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "common elements" is a versatile noun phrase used to identify shared characteristics or features. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely accepted in both formal and informal contexts. The phrase is very common, appearing frequently in news, academic writing, and encyclopedias. When using "common elements", clarity is key: specify what those elements are to avoid vagueness. Consider alternatives like "shared characteristics" or "commonalities" to vary your phrasing. Always aim for precision when highlighting similarities.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

commonalities

A more concise term for shared qualities or characteristics.

shared characteristics

Focuses on the characteristics that are shared.

mutual traits

Highlights the traits that are mutual or reciprocal.

shared attributes

Emphasizes the attributes or qualities that are shared.

overarching themes

Refers to the main themes that are present in multiple instances.

recurring features

Highlights features that recur or appear repeatedly.

connecting threads

Focuses on the threads or links that connect different items.

unifying aspects

Emphasizes aspects that unify or bring together different things.

shared components

Focuses on the components that are shared among different entities.

parallel features

Highlights features that are parallel or similar in different contexts.

FAQs

How to use "common elements" in a sentence?

You can use "common elements" to describe shared features or characteristics between different things. For example, "Despite their differences, the two proposals share some "common elements"".

What's another way to say "common elements"?

Alternatives to "common elements" include "shared characteristics", "mutual traits", or "commonalities", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "elements in common" instead of "common elements"?

While "elements in common" is grammatically correct, "common elements" is more frequently used and sounds more natural in contemporary English. Both phrases convey the same meaning.

What are some examples of "common elements" in different fields?

In literature, "common elements" might include recurring themes or character archetypes. In science, they could be shared properties or reactions. In design, they might involve similar aesthetic principles or materials.