find common cause

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "find common cause" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing collaboration or shared goals among individuals or groups, often in a social, political, or community context. Example: "In times of crisis, it is essential for communities to find common cause to address the challenges they face together."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In the days ahead, we must find common cause.

The New York Times

Perhaps the local Baltimore Ravens fans will find common cause.

The New York Times

Anti-nationalist ultra-Orthodox Jews might find common cause with Muslim traditionalists.

The New Yorker

They sometimes find common cause with Republican neocons, who no longer like to be called that.

The New Yorker

There are many reasons why old and young people should find common cause.

The Guardian - Opinion

L.B.J. had countless chances to reach across the growing divide and find common cause with Kennedy.

The New York Times

He has certainly never been an ingratiating comedian, anxious to find common cause with his audience.

The Guardian

I said that person would be able to find common cause with people of all backgrounds.

The New York Times

They've had to hold their nose and find common cause with the Lannisters, despite obvious differences.

Independent

He can find common cause with moderate Democrats on Medicare reform, as he did with education.

The Economist

You might think that the Austrians would find common cause with the monetarists.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "find common cause", consider the specific context and ensure that the phrase accurately reflects the nature of the collaboration or agreement. It implies a deliberate effort to identify shared goals or values despite potential differences.

Common error

Avoid using "find common cause" when there is only superficial agreement or when underlying conflicts remain unresolved. The phrase suggests a more substantial alignment than may actually exist.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "find common cause" functions as a verbal phrase, typically used to describe the action of identifying shared objectives or values between different parties, enabling collaboration. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and frequent use.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Formal & Business

18%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Science

3%

Reference

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "find common cause" is a versatile phrase used to describe the process of discovering shared goals or values between different parties, facilitating collaboration. As Ludwig AI shows, it is grammatically correct and widely used in various contexts, particularly in news, business, and academic settings. When using this phrase, consider the specific context and ensure that it accurately reflects the nature of the collaboration. Avoid overstating the level of agreement or using the phrase when underlying conflicts remain unresolved. Alternatives such as "unite for a shared purpose" or "find common ground" can be used depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

find common ground

Focuses on identifying areas of agreement amidst disagreement.

work together towards a common goal

Highlights collaborative effort towards a specific target.

unite for a shared purpose

Emphasizes unity and a single, defined objective.

reach a consensus

Suggests a collective agreement after discussion and deliberation.

seek commonality

Highlights the active search for shared values and beliefs.

come to an understanding

Highlights the process of reaching a mutual agreement or compromise.

align interests

Focuses on making different goals compatible.

join forces

Implies a strategic alliance for a particular purpose.

act in concert

Emphasizes coordinated action and agreement.

build bridges

Focuses on establishing connections and understanding between different groups.

FAQs

How can I use "find common cause" in a sentence?

You can use "find common cause" to describe situations where different groups or individuals identify shared goals and work together, such as, "Despite their political differences, the two parties were able to "find common cause" on the issue of education reform".

What are some alternatives to "find common cause"?

Alternatives include "unite for a shared purpose", "find common ground", or "work together", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "find common cause" or "share a common cause"?

"Find common cause" emphasizes the process of discovering or establishing shared goals, while "share a common cause" highlights the state of already having shared goals. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize the process or the outcome.

What does it mean to "find common cause" with someone?

To "find common cause" with someone means to identify shared goals, values, or interests with them, despite any differences that may exist, and to work together towards achieving those shared objectives.