commonplace things

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "commonplace things" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It refers to things that are ordinary, ordinary, or unremarkable. Example: In his daily routine, John often overlooks the beauty in the commonplace things around him, such as the gentle rustling of leaves in the wind or the warmth of a cup of coffee on a cold morning.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

But how quickly the commonplace things that people do become mysteries when circumstances change.

The New York Times

American poet laureate (2008 10) who wrote punchy, wry verses about commonplace things with consummate craft, humour, and intelligence.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It was not simply a commentary on marriage, loss of personal freedom and the over-richness of even commonplace things.

The New York Times

They show such commonplace things as rural landscapes, a dog, a light bulb, a chair, a bicycle and boxcars.

The New York Times

In fantastical form, the novel explores the genre of magic realism by emphasizing the extraordinary nature of commonplace things while mystical things are shown to be common.

Britannica

Its masterly realism—"the faithful representing of commonplace things"—brought to English fiction the same truthful observation of minute detail that John Ruskin was commending in the Pre-Raphaelites.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

It's just a commonplace thing.

The Guardian - Music

A commonplace thing, accident or loss, it may mean nothing here and everything there".

The New York Times - Books

It would have been a very commonplace thing for her to go to a festival, but nobody knew me then, and she was so nice to me.

The Guardian - Books

Reno is a persuasive and moving narrator because Ms. Kushner allows her the vulnerability and fuzzy-mindedness of youth while rarely allowing her to think or say a commonplace thing.

The New York Times - Books

The most commonplace thing is now imbued with danger -- fearsome bacteria lurk in the salad bar amid croutons, a newly minted carcinogen foments in the fabric softener -- and staying tuned provides the only safety.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a contrast, juxtapose "commonplace things" with extraordinary or unexpected elements to create emphasis and highlight the unique aspects of the latter.

Common error

Avoid using "commonplace things" excessively in descriptions, as it can make your writing seem generic and uninspired. Instead, try to use specific, vivid details to bring your descriptions to life.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "commonplace things" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "commonplace" modifies the noun "things". It generally describes objects, events, or ideas that are ordinary, unremarkable, or frequently encountered. As Ludwig AI explains, it's grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

20%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "commonplace things" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that describes ordinary or unremarkable objects, events, or concepts. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and its presence in varied contexts, from news to encyclopedias. While versatile, it's important to avoid overuse in descriptive passages to maintain writing vibrancy. Alternative phrases like "ordinary objects" or "everyday occurrences" can provide nuance. The phrase's neutral register makes it suitable for various writing styles, emphasizing its function in grounding abstract concepts in relatable experiences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ordinary objects

Focuses on the physical aspect of being common rather than implying an idea.

mundane items

Highlights the boring, everyday nature of the items.

everyday occurrences

Shifts the focus to events that happen regularly.

typical affairs

Emphasizes the usual and expected nature of the events.

routine matters

Suggests tasks or issues that are part of a regular pattern.

familiar aspects

Emphasizes elements people already know or recognize.

common features

Focuses on widely found or shared characteristics.

standard elements

Highlights components that adhere to a norm or expectation.

conventional aspects

Indicates behaviors or norms that conform to accepted standards.

unremarkable details

Directly points out the lack of special or interesting qualities.

FAQs

How can I use "commonplace things" in a sentence?

You can use "commonplace things" to describe ordinary, everyday objects or events. For instance, "He found beauty in the "ordinary objects" around him".

What are some alternatives to "commonplace things"?

Depending on the context, you could use "mundane items", "everyday occurrences", or "familiar aspects".

Is it better to say "common things" or "commonplace things"?

"Common things" is generally broader, referring to things that are simply common or widespread. "Commonplace things" implies something is not only common but also ordinary or unremarkable. In this context "ordinary objects" can be used instead.

What is the difference between "commonplace things" and "popular things"?

"Commonplace things" refers to items or aspects that are ordinary or unremarkable because they are frequently encountered. "Popular things" refers to items or aspects that are widely liked or favored by many people. The phrase "ordinary objects" emphasizes frequency, while "popular things" emphasizes favor.