common parlance

USAGE SUMMARY

"common parlance" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It refers to language and terms that are commonly used and understood by the general population. Here are some examples of how you can use "common parlance" in a sentence: - In common parlance, the word "cool" can mean both something that is trendy and something that is cold in temperature. - The legal jargon of my contract was difficult to understand, so I asked my lawyer to explain it in common parlance. - The term "IRL," meaning "in real life," is often used in common parlance by internet users. - While "lightbulb moment" is not a scientific term, it has entered common parlance as a way to describe a sudden moment of understanding.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

RR : Common parlance.

The Guardian

Indeed, George Smiley has entered common parlance.

Independent

Is that a law or is that just common parlance?

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Or, in common parlance, not a double entendre.

The Guardian - Opinion

The word 'pleb' seems to have passed into common parlance".

The Guardian

In the common parlance, in fact, he's called a dealer.

The Guardian

However, in common parlance, kilocalories are referred to as "calories".

Encyclopedia Britannica

Ecosystem services (ES) and ecosystem services assessment (ESA) have become common parlance in the environmental field.

Applied Geography

To be "philosophical" about something, in common parlance, is to face it calmly, without irrational anxiety.

The New York Times - Books

In common parlance, this means "Where's the big bug gone?," but that would break the mood.

The New Yorker

Flotsam/Jetsam Married in common parlance, but divorced in maritime law.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "common parlance" to clarify technical or specialized language for a general audience. For example, "In scientific terms, this is known as X, but in "common parlance", it's often called Y."

Common error

Avoid using "common parlance" when addressing a specialized audience familiar with technical terms. It may come across as condescending or unnecessary.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "common parlance" functions as a discourse marker, signaling a shift from formal or technical language to more accessible, everyday terms. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Encyclopedias

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "common parlance" is a frequently used phrase that serves to bridge the gap between technical language and everyday understanding. As Ludwig AI highlights, it's grammatically correct and appears predominantly in News & Media, Encyclopedias, and Science contexts. When incorporating "common parlance" into your writing, ensure it aligns with your audience’s understanding and the overall tone. Using it inappropriately, particularly with specialized audiences, can detract from your intended clarity. Remember that it signals a shift to accessible terms, and has alternatives like "everyday language".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

popular language

Refers to the widespread use of certain terms or expressions within a specific group or society.

everyday language

Emphasizes the ordinary and accessible nature of the language used.

general usage

Focuses on how words or phrases are typically employed by most people.

accepted terminology

Highlights the widespread agreement on the use of specific terms within a field or community.

vernacular

Indicates the informal, everyday language of a particular region or group.

prevailing terminology

Focuses on the current and widespread use of specific terms.

public discourse

Emphasizes the way language is used in public conversations and debates.

standard idiom

Implies that the phrase is a well-established and widely recognized expression.

common idiom

Highlights the widespread use of an expression.

generally accepted phrase

Suggests that the phrase is recognized and understood by most people.

FAQs

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

You can use "common parlance" to introduce a more accessible explanation of a term or concept. For example, "The technical term is 'hyperglycemia,' but in "common parlance", it's high blood sugar."

What is the difference between "common parlance" and "technical jargon"?

"Common parlance" refers to everyday language understood by most people, while "technical jargon" is specialized language used within a particular field or profession.

What are some alternatives to "common parlance"?

Alternatives to "common parlance" include "everyday language", "popular language", or "general usage", depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "common parlance" in writing?

It is appropriate to use "common parlance" when you need to ensure that your writing is easily understood by a wide audience, especially when dealing with complex or technical subjects.