lot in common

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lot in common" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to express that two or more people or things share similar interests, characteristics, or experiences. Example: "Despite their different backgrounds, they found that they had a lot in common, which helped them become good friends."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"We have a lot in common, actually.

The New Yorker

"We've got a lot in common.

Independent

We have a lot in common.

The New York Times

We had a lot in common.

The New York Times

So, we have a lot in common.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

You have a lot in common".

The New York Times

We had a lot in common professionally.

The New York Times - Style

The two have a lot in common.

The Guardian

And they have a lot in common.

The New York Times

They have a lot in common.

The New York Times - Sports

These two have a lot in common.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "lot in common", ensure that you clearly specify what aspects are shared to provide context and clarity for your reader. For example, instead of saying "They have a lot in common", specify "They have a "lot in common" in their love for hiking and passion for environmental conservation."

Common error

Avoid using "lot in common" when the similarities are superficial or few. Overstating the shared aspects can mislead your audience. Reserve the phrase for situations where the connections are substantial and meaningful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lot in common" functions as a descriptor, indicating that two or more entities share similar attributes, interests, or experiences. As Ludwig AI shows, it is commonly used to express shared characteristics.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Academia

37%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "lot in common" is a versatile and frequently used expression to denote shared characteristics, interests, or experiences. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is grammatically correct and broadly accepted. Predominantly found in News & Media and Academic contexts, it serves to emphasize connections and similarities. When employing this phrase, clarity is key—ensure you specify the shared aspects to provide adequate context. While alternatives like "many shared attributes" or "substantial overlap" exist, "lot in common" remains a straightforward and effective way to highlight common ground.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

share many traits

This version uses "traits" to refer to specific characteristics that are common.

a great deal of overlap

This alternative emphasizes the extent to which two or more things cover the same area or topic.

several aspects in common

This alternative focuses on specific aspects or features that entities share.

many shared attributes

This alternative focuses on attributes, implying characteristics or qualities that are alike.

significant shared qualities

This option underscores the importance or noteworthiness of the qualities that are alike.

considerable common ground

This alternative emphasizes shared beliefs, interests, or opinions as the basis of similarity.

a wealth of similarities

This alternative emphasizes the abundance of shared characteristics or features.

numerous points of convergence

This phrase highlights where two things meet or intersect in terms of shared qualities.

substantial overlap

This phrase suggests a considerable degree of shared characteristics or interests between entities.

have much in terms of resemblance

This alternative highlights the likeness or similarity between two things.

FAQs

How do I use "lot in common" in a sentence?

You can use "lot in common" to describe shared interests, experiences, or characteristics between people or things. For example, "Despite their different backgrounds, they discovered they had a "lot in common"."

What are some alternatives to saying "lot in common"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "many shared attributes", "substantial overlap", or "share many traits".

Is it better to say "a lot in common" or "much in common"?

Both "a lot in common" and "much in common" are grammatically correct and widely used. The choice between them often depends on personal preference, although "a lot" is slightly more informal.

What does it mean when someone says two things have "a lot in common"?

When someone says two things have "a lot in common", it means they share significant similarities, whether in terms of characteristics, features, experiences, or interests.