commonness

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'commonness' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use the word to describe the quality or condition of being common, or the state of being widely shared. For example, "The commonness of computers in homes has drastically changed the way people communicate and work."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

Between these three aspects there exists an inner connection: transcendentals are the 'firsts', since they are most common; and because of their commonness they transcend the categories".

SEP

On the one hand, the conceptualists: thinkers like Peter of Auriol and William of Ockham denied that what is first by commonness, "being", would be the adequate "moving object" of the intellect, for something common cannot move the intellect nor cause an intellectual cognition.

SEP

Outside Italy there was great variation in both commonness and size of crypts.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Schuch's acting possessed a quality of commonness untainted by triviality or grossness.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In one, he had highlighted a passage about the relative commonness of T. bataar, which, he believed, underscored his point that his specimens were scientifically unimportant.

The New Yorker

This is especially noticeable when — as Halperin writes, in his acidulous final chapter — gay people are "preening themselves on their dullness, commonness, averageness".

The New Yorker

"Yet while showing her in all commonness, she had to be portrayed in a way that audiences would realize that beneath the surface her instincts were fine, heartwarming, and noble".

The New Yorker

To be responsible for his rose, the Prince learns, is to see it as it really is, in all its fragility and vanity — indeed, in all its utter commonness!

The New Yorker

"Trade" carried the stigma of commonness.

The New Yorker

It is this very ordinariness, the commonness today of a journey that leads from deprivation to hope, from poverty to something that is at least within striking distance of prosperity, that is the real indication of India's progress over the last decade.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Something of this commonness plainness as well as coarseness characterized Edinburgh's intellectual heyday: a strong, broad, confident ability to grasp the first principles of things and to explain them in the common language, preferably through conversation and debate.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "commonness" to emphasize the shared or widespread nature of something, distinguishing it from rarity or uniqueness. It can add depth when discussing social trends, scientific phenomena, or philosophical concepts.

Common error

Avoid using "commonness" when you mean to convey something is crude or low-class. While it can imply ordinariness, it doesn't inherently suggest poor quality or taste. Use words like "vulgarity" or "coarseness" instead when that's your intent.

Linguistic Context

The word "commonness" primarily functions as a noun, denoting the state or quality of being common or widespread. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts. Examples show its use in discussions ranging from philosophical concepts to everyday occurrences.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "commonness" is a noun that accurately describes the state of being common or widespread. Ludwig AI indicates that the term is grammatically sound and appropriate for use in a variety of contexts, from philosophical discussions to everyday observations. While synonyms like "prevalence" or "ordinariness" may be more fitting in certain cases, "commonness" offers a versatile and generally neutral option. Its frequent occurrence in news, scientific, and encyclopedia sources underscores its suitability for diverse writing styles, and it's important to avoid confusing it with terms implying vulgarity. Ludwig's examples effectively showcase its application in both formal and informal settings, solidifying its place as a reliable and useful term in the English language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

common occurrence

Expresses the frequency with which something happens.

prevalence

Focuses on how widespread something is.

ordinariness

Highlights the everyday, unremarkable nature of something.

ubiquity

Emphasizes the seemingly everywhere presence of something.

generality

Indicates something is widespread and not specific.

typicality

Emphasizes how representative something is of a given class or type.

prevalence rate

Quantifies how often something occurs within a specific population or context.

widespread occurrence

Highlights the extent and scope of an event or phenomenon.

shared attributes

Focuses on characteristics that are widely held or exhibited.

customariness

Refers to the conformity to custom or established practice.

FAQs

How can I use "commonness" in a sentence?

"Commonness" is a noun that refers to the state or quality of being common. For example, "The "commonness" of smartphones has transformed daily communication".

What are some synonyms for "commonness"?

Alternatives to "commonness" include "prevalence", "ordinariness", "generality", and "ubiquity". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "commonness" in formal writing?

Yes, "commonness" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when discussing abstract concepts or phenomena. However, consider whether a more precise synonym might be more effective in conveying your intended meaning.

What is the difference between "commonness" and "commonality"?

While both terms relate to being common, "commonness" emphasizes the state or quality of being widespread or ordinary, while "commonality" highlights shared characteristics or features. Choose the word that best reflects the aspect you wish to emphasize.