having something in common

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "having something in common" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe shared characteristics, interests, or experiences between people or things. Example: "Despite their different backgrounds, they found that they were having something in common, which helped them bond quickly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

It's called Having Something In Common.

The Guardian - Opinion

Having something in common with the person you're trying to persuade gives you an advantage.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

That in addition to Richard III and Saddam Hussein having something in common, that Richard III and President Bush do?

The New York Times

Even if you don't know anyone there, having something in common can open doors to new connections and friendships.

The New York Times

I consider three aspects of intersubjectivity corresponding to the teaching design difficulties described here: (1) intersubjectivity as having something in common, (2) intersubjectivity as coordination of participants' contributions, and (3) intersubjectivity as human agency.

Teaching and Teacher Education

Balabanov's St Petersburg is shown as having something in common with Arthur Schnitzler's Vienna, in which heavily furnished front parlours, upright pianos, mob-capped maids and antimacassars are the primal scenes for unacknowledged yearnings and sexual awakenings, both real and imagined.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

All these languages have something in common.

Artificial Intelligence

FISHERMEN have something in common with cowboys.

The Economist

But these C.E.O.s have something in common.

The New York Times

Yet they definitely had something in common.

The New York Times

Donald Trump and Bernie Sanders have something in common.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "having something in common" to establish rapport with someone. Mentioning shared interests or experiences can create a sense of connection and facilitate conversation.

Common error

While versatile, "having something in common" can sound too informal in academic or professional contexts. Opt for more precise alternatives like "sharing a commonality" or "exhibiting similar traits" for enhanced clarity and sophistication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "having something in common" functions primarily as a means to establish a connection or identify a shared attribute between two or more entities. As shown by Ludwig, this encompasses a wide range of contexts, from personal relationships to abstract comparisons.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

25%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "having something in common" is a versatile expression used to denote shared characteristics, interests, or experiences. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and appears frequently across diverse sources, including News & Media, Science, and Academia. It serves the purpose of establishing connections, building rapport, and drawing comparisons, with its register being generally neutral. While the phrase is prevalent, it's advisable to opt for more formal alternatives in highly academic or professional writing to enhance clarity and sophistication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sharing common ground

This alternative focuses on the idea of a shared foundation or basis for agreement or understanding.

possessing a shared attribute

This alternative emphasizes the act of both entities holding an attribute in conjunction.

having shared interests

This alternative specifically highlights the commonality of interests, rather than general characteristics.

finding a mutual connection

This focuses on the act of discovering a common link or bond.

identifying with each other

This alternative emphasizes the sense of empathy and understanding that arises from shared experiences.

seeing eye to eye

This focuses on agreement and shared perspectives, often in the context of opinions or beliefs.

being on the same wavelength

This implies a more intuitive and harmonious connection between individuals.

resonating with each other

This suggests a deeper, emotional connection based on shared values or experiences.

sharing a kindred spirit

This highlights a deep connection between two souls.

being like-minded

This emphasizes the similarity in thoughts, opinions, and attitudes.

FAQs

What does it mean to "have something in common" with someone?

To "have something in common" with someone means to share similar interests, experiences, characteristics, or beliefs. It implies a connection or bond based on shared attributes.

How can "having something in common" help in building relationships?

"Having something in common" provides a foundation for conversation and understanding, making it easier to connect with others. Shared interests can lead to enjoyable activities and stronger bonds.

Are there situations where focusing on differences is more beneficial than "having something in common"?

Yes, while commonalities build rapport, recognizing and valuing differences can foster diversity and innovation. In collaborative settings, different perspectives are often essential for problem-solving. Emphasizing differences can depend on the context and goal of the interaction.

What are some alternative ways to express "having something in common"?

You can use alternatives like "sharing common ground", "possessing a shared attribute", or "having shared interests" depending on the specific context.