sharing a common language

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sharing a common language" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the act of communicating effectively with others who speak the same language or share similar linguistic understanding. Example: "In a diverse workplace, sharing a common language can significantly enhance collaboration and teamwork."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

This moment always has an element of magic: two students from very different disciplines coming together, now sharing a common language, knowing exactly where to meet, and why.

The New York Times

But I suppose I didn't expect the US, so intimately known in many ways from movies and TV and sharing a common language, to be so different for cycling.

The Guardian

Long ago, our former enemy from across the Channel became our ally and despite not sharing a common language, we do share a political and social culture born in the age of enlightenment.

The Guardian

This reiterates my earlier point about sharing a common language.

EJNMMI Physics

Some goods that can yield rights, and that are, Réaume argues, participatory in at least some of their aspects, are living in a cultured society, sharing a common language, and being a member of a religious community.

SEP

Despite sharing a common language and much of the same popular culture, and one of the longest continuous international borders in the world, Canada and the U.S. enjoy relatively disparate privileges when it comes to streaming digital content.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

"For me, we share a common language.

Independent

Many researchers, he said, "start to share a common language".

The New York Times - Science

Is it Britain, which shares a common language and a reverence for ancient collegiate campuses?

The New York Times

For them, communication is impossible even though they share a common language.

The New York Times

And me and Brigitte, we didn't share a common language, and I think I wound her up a bit.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In international contexts, highlight how "sharing a common language" can facilitate trade, cultural exchange, and diplomatic relations.

Common error

Don't assume that "sharing a common language" guarantees perfect understanding. Cultural nuances and differing interpretations can still lead to miscommunication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sharing a common language" functions as a noun phrase, often used as a subject or object in a sentence. As Ludwig AI points out, it describes the act of having a mutual linguistic understanding, facilitating communication and collaboration.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "sharing a common language" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to describe the mutual understanding and ease of communication that arises when individuals or groups speak the same language. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely employed in various contexts, including news, science, and everyday conversations. While it highlights the benefits of linguistic similarity, it's important to remember that cultural nuances and differing interpretations can still impact communication. Alternatives like "having a mutual language" or "communicating effectively" can be used depending on the specific context. Ultimately, while linguistic similarity is valuable, it's just one component of successful communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

having a mutual language

Focuses on the reciprocity of language understanding.

possessing a shared language

Highlights the ownership or inherent characteristic of the language.

speaking the same language

Emphasizes the act of speaking and using the same language.

communicating effectively

Broadens the concept to include effective communication, not just language.

having a linguistic connection

Focuses on the bond created through language.

understanding each other

Shifts the focus to mutual comprehension.

being on the same wavelength

An idiomatic expression indicating agreement and understanding.

having a common discourse

Highlights a shared mode of conversation and understanding.

fostering mutual intelligibility

Emphasizes the process of creating understanding.

establishing rapport

Focuses on creating a harmonious relationship through communication.

FAQs

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

You can use "sharing a common language" to describe situations where communication is easier due to a mutual understanding of language, for example: "The success of the project was partly due to the team "sharing a common language"."

What are the benefits of "sharing a common language" in a multicultural team?

In a multicultural team, "sharing a common language" enhances collaboration, reduces misunderstandings, and fosters a more inclusive work environment.

What can I say instead of "sharing a common language"?

You can use alternatives like "having a mutual language", "speaking the same language", or "communicating effectively depending on the context.

Is "sharing a common language" always enough for effective communication?

No, while "sharing a common language" helps, effective communication also depends on cultural understanding, clear articulation, and active listening.