common usage of the word

USAGE SUMMARY

"common usage of the word" is a correct and usable expression in written English.
You can use it when referring to how a word is frequently used by people in everyday language. For example, "The common usage of the word 'literally' has changed over time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Noam Chomsky suggests that debating this question is pointless, for it is an essentially arbitrary decision whether to extend common usage of the word think to include machines.

Britannica

In addition to considering dictionary definitions for and the common usage of the word "personal" standing alone, Chief Justice Roberts said the word should also be considered in the context of the phrase "personal privacy".

The New York Times

They claim that their definition already fits with the common usage of the word planet, even in peer-reviewed planetary science publications.

Forbes

Krugman spends the rest of Monday's column fabricating controversy around the common usage of the word "bank".

Huffington Post

This theory was furthered by VICE contributor Tom Whyman, who recently wrote about how "common usage of the word 'lads' moving away from that, even becoming gender-neutral".

Vice

By "ought to," Adams did not mean "should," but merely that he thought these ways of celebrating were likely, a common usage of the word "ought" at the time.

HuffPost

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Try avoiding the vulgar usage of the word in the English Grammar.

WikiHow

(If you're new to the column, I choose to transform the word "responsibility" from the common usage of blame or fault into something that means "having the ability to respond").

Huffington Post

What is striking about Addie Polk's loan is that it wasn't "predatory," in the common usage of that term.

The New Yorker

In common usage the word legend usually characterizes a traditional tale thought to have a historical basis, as in the legends of King Arthur or Robin Hood.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This is the most common usage of miso.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "common usage of the word" to distinguish between technical definitions and everyday interpretations.

Common error

Don't assume your audience is familiar with the "common usage of the word", particularly when writing for a diverse or non-specialist audience. Provide context or examples to ensure clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "common usage of the word" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or object of a preposition. It is used to specify a particular aspect of a word, namely its widespread application. Ludwig AI confirms that is a correct expression.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

20%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Science

13%

Academia

13%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "common usage of the word" is a noun phrase used to denote how a word is generally understood and applied in everyday language. Ludwig AI confirms that this is grammatically sound and appropriate for use in various contexts. While it appears most frequently in news and media, it is also relevant in encyclopedias, wikis, science, and academic discussions. Recognizing the "common usage of the word" helps clarify potential ambiguities between technical definitions and everyday interpretations, ensuring more precise and effective communication. Remember to provide context or examples to ensure clarity, particularly for diverse audiences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

typical application of the term

Focuses on the application rather than the more general concept of usage.

standard way to use the word

Emphasizes adherence to a recognized standard.

conventional use of the term

Highlights traditional and accepted usage.

accepted sense of the word

Highlights the meaning that is broadly agreed upon.

prevailing definition of the word

Focuses on the most widespread definition.

general understanding of the word

Focuses on comprehension and interpretation.

popular interpretation of the word

Emphasizes widespread belief or understanding.

customary manner of using the word

Focuses on established custom and habit.

ordinary connotation of the word

Highlights the implied or suggested meaning.

regular employment of the word

Emphasizes the act of frequently employing the term.

FAQs

How can I use "common usage of the word" in a sentence?

You can use "common usage of the word" to clarify how a term is generally understood, as opposed to its technical or historical meaning. For example, "The "common usage of the word" 'literally' now often includes a non-literal sense".

What's the difference between "common usage of the word" and "definition of the word"?

"Common usage of the word" refers to how people generally use a word in everyday language, which may differ from the formal "definition of the word" found in dictionaries.

What can I say instead of "common usage of the word"?

Alternatives include "typical application of the term", "standard way to use the word", or "accepted sense of the word", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it important to know the "common usage of the word"?

Yes, understanding the "common usage of the word" is crucial for effective communication, as it reflects how language is actually used and understood by most people.