devoid of common sense

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "devoid of common sense" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use this phrase to describe someone or something that lacks good judgement, sound reasoning, or logic. For example: "His decision to quit his full-time job and pursue an art degree is completely devoid of common sense."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

The Isle of the Dead is another work set on a rock in the sea, another allegory devoid of common sense.

Independent

The man is xenophobic, misogynist, devoid of common sense or a sense of reality; he thinks he's better than everyone, jokes about assaulting women, which we know he has; he thinks he's too smart to file his taxes.

The Guardian

Maybe it is a thwarted desire to win over the "serious" literary establishment that has driven Keyes to create such an un- Keyesian central character - humourless and devoid of common sense.

The Guardian - Books

Very often even the intellectual giants who can calculate the motion of the stars are devoid of common sense.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

In the land of common sense.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The curse of "common sense".

The Guardian - Books

Levels of common sense vary.

The New York Times

"They have a lot of common sense".

The New York Times

That bit of common sense changed everything.

The Guardian

It's a matter of common sense.

The New York Times

"It is a question of common sense.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "devoid of common sense", ensure the context clearly illustrates the absence of practical judgment or sound reasoning. Provide specific examples to support your claim.

Common error

Avoid using "devoid of common sense" excessively in formal writing. While grammatically correct, it can sometimes sound overly critical. Opt for more nuanced language that conveys a lack of judgment without being harsh. Consider alternatives such as "lacking good judgment" or "without sound reasoning" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "devoid of common sense" functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun by indicating a lack of good judgment or practical reasoning. As Ludwig AI confirms, it describes something that lacks sound reasoning or logic. Examples include describing actions or decisions.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "devoid of common sense" is a grammatically sound expression used to describe a lack of practical judgment or sound reasoning. As Ludwig AI validates, the phrase is indeed correct and usable in written English. While its frequency is relatively low, it appears primarily in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, ensure your writing is clear and supported by examples that demonstrate the absence of good sense. Though grammatically correct, be mindful of the tone in formal contexts and consider softer alternatives like "lacking good judgment" if needed. Finally, remember that this phrase serves to criticize or disapprove of something deemed impractical or poorly reasoned.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lacking good judgment

Focuses on the absence of sound decision-making skills.

bereft of good sense

Emphasizes a significant deficiency in sensible thinking.

without sound reasoning

Highlights the absence of logical thought processes.

deficient in practicality

Stresses the inadequacy in practical application of knowledge.

foolhardy

Implies recklessness and a disregard for consequences.

unwise

A general term for actions or decisions that are not sensible.

imprudent

Suggests a lack of foresight and caution.

short-sighted

Focuses on a failure to consider the long-term effects.

senseless

Indicates a lack of meaning or purpose, often in a negative way.

irrational

Points to actions or thoughts that are not based on reason or logic.

FAQs

How can I use "devoid of common sense" in a sentence?

You can use "devoid of common sense" to describe actions, decisions, or plans that lack practicality or sound judgment. For example, "Investing all your savings in a volatile cryptocurrency is an idea completely devoid of common sense."

What is a synonym for "devoid of common sense"?

Synonyms for "devoid of common sense" include "lacking good judgment", "bereft of good sense", and "without sound reasoning". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "lacking common sense" or "devoid of common sense"?

Both "lacking common sense" and "devoid of common sense" are grammatically correct and have similar meanings. "Devoid of common sense" may sound slightly more formal or emphatic, while "lacking common sense" is more straightforward. The choice depends on the desired tone and context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "devoid of common sense"?

The phrase "devoid of common sense" is appropriate when you want to strongly emphasize the absence of practical reasoning or sound judgment in a particular situation or decision. It is best used when you can provide clear examples to support your assessment.