in common use

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'in common use' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to something that is regularly used or accepted in a particular society or culture. For example, "In our society, bicycles are in common use for commuting to work."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I'm just happy to see it in common use".

The New York Times

The term "Holocaust" had yet to be in common use.

The New Yorker

Several other types of anchors are in common use.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Enamel and acrylic lacquer are both in common use.

Encyclopedia Britannica

These terms are in common use but lack rigid definition.

Encyclopedia Britannica

That compares with the 200-micron thickness in common use.

The New York Times

The plunger pump is the oldest type in common use.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Joseph in Greenwich Village, wrote me that iBreviary is in common use in the church.

The New Yorker

Despite the confusion of the philosophers, the word "evil" is still in common use.

The New Yorker

At the time, the table in common use was from 1983.

The New York Times

The 20-volume Oxford English Dictionary lists 171,476 words as being in common use.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in common use", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being commonly used and by whom. Specificity enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "in common use" without specifying the field or community where the usage is common. Saying "this method is in common use" is less effective than saying "this method is in common use in the medical community".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in common use" functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate that something is widely utilized or practiced. Ludwig AI confirms that it follows standard grammar rules and is appropriate for use in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

23%

Science

35%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in common use" is a grammatically correct and frequently employed phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It functions as an adjective phrase, indicating that something is widely adopted or practiced. It is versatile and suitable for various registers, although it is most frequently found in news, encyclopedias, and scientific contexts. When using "in common use", specificity is key; clearly indicate what is being commonly used and in what context to enhance clarity. Avoid vagueness to ensure effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in general use

Very similar, but may imply slightly less specialized contexts.

frequently used

Emphasizes the high frequency of application or utilization.

widely adopted

Focuses on the broad acceptance and implementation of something.

regularly employed

Focuses on the consistent and routine application of something.

commonly practiced

Indicates a widespread and regular performance of a particular activity.

generally accepted

Highlights the overall agreement and approval surrounding something.

prevalent

Suggests a widespread existence or occurrence.

standard practice

Implies that something is a typical or established method.

customary

Indicates something that is traditional and widely observed.

the norm

Implies that something is typical and expected.

FAQs

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

You can use "in common use" to describe something that is widely adopted or frequently practiced. For example, "Smartphones are "in common use" for communication and entertainment".

What are some alternatives to "in common use"?

Alternatives include "widely adopted", "frequently used", or "generally accepted", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "widely in common use"?

Yes, saying "widely in common use" is generally redundant. The phrase "in common use" already implies widespread adoption, so adding "widely" doesn't add significant meaning.

What's the difference between "in common use" and "standard practice"?

"In common use" simply means something is frequently used, while "standard practice" implies that something is an established and accepted method within a specific field or profession. It conveys a sense of formality and official recognition that "in common use" may lack.