common for a

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "common for a" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when discussing something that frequently occurs or is typical in relation to a specific subject. Example: "It is common for a student to feel overwhelmed during exams." Alternative expressions include "typical for a" and "frequent for a."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It is very common for a negative spiral to begin.

Stanford University

It's also more common for a president to advance an educational agenda through subtler means.

The New York Times

It's also very common for a candidate's subconscious worries to find expression on their CV.

The Guardian

Cross-pollination between TV and film is increasingly common, for a number of reasons.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"It is very common for a child to be confused at first.

The New Yorker

It is even less common for a director to accept an extra's suggestions.

The New York Times

It is fairly common for a Super Pac to have an allied nonprofit.

The Guardian

Is it common for a president to defend those accused of crimes on political grounds?

The New York Times

In my experience consulting with executives, it's common for a leader's discontent to turn inward.

Harvard Business Review

Before that, it was fairly common for a party to renominate a candidate.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Demanding five B-grade GCSEs has become more common for A-level entry.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "common for a" to introduce something expected or frequently observed, making your statements sound more natural and grounded in reality.

Common error

Avoid using a plural noun after "a" when using the phrase. Instead of saying "It is common for a students to be late", say "It is common for a student to be late."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "common for a" functions as an adjective phrase followed by a preposition, modifying a noun to indicate that something is typical or frequently observed regarding that noun. Ludwig AI validates its frequent usage across diverse sources.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "common for a" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe something typical or expected in relation to a specific noun. According to Ludwig, its usage is prevalent across various contexts, especially in News & Media and Academia. When using this phrase, remember to follow it with a singular, countable noun and ensure it accurately reflects a frequent or typical occurrence. By understanding its function and purpose, you can effectively incorporate "common for a" into your writing to convey natural and grounded observations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

typical of a

Focuses on the characteristic nature of something in relation to a specific category.

characteristic of a

Emphasizes the defining features associated with a particular subject.

representative of a

Highlights the role of something as an example or instance of a broader group.

usual for a

Indicates that something aligns with the expected or customary behavior.

often seen in a

Emphasizes the observable frequency of a particular trait or behavior.

frequently found in a

Highlights the high incidence of something within a particular context.

commonly observed in a

Emphasizes the widespread recognition or awareness of a specific phenomenon.

not unusual for a

Suggests that something, while perhaps notable, does not deviate from the ordinary.

to be expected in a

Highlights that something aligns with reasonable anticipation within a given situation.

normally present in a

Focuses on the ordinary presence or existence of something within a particular entity or context.

FAQs

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

Use "common for a" to describe something that frequently happens or is typical for a specific noun. For example, "It is "common for a" child to be confused at first".

What are some alternatives to "common for a"?

You can use alternatives such as "typical of a", "characteristic of a", or "usual for a" depending on the context. These alternatives offer slightly different nuances while conveying a similar meaning.

Is it grammatically correct to say "common for a"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. The phrase is used to indicate that something is frequently observed or expected in relation to the noun that follows.

When should I use "common for a" instead of "common in"?

"Common for a" is used to describe a typical characteristic or occurrence related to a single instance of something, whereas "common in" is used to describe something that is generally prevalent within a broader group or situation. For instance, "It's "common for a" cold to cause a fever" versus "Colds are common in winter".