too commonplace

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "too commonplace" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It means something is very common, ordinary, or lacking in originality. Example: "Her ideas were too commonplace and did not stand out among the other submissions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

The Tkaches' situation is all too commonplace.

The New Yorker

These days, evictions are too commonplace to attract attention.

The New Yorker

Forget Holst's "Planets": that's too commonplace for this band.

The New York Times - Arts

But the 101st was continually deploying, and reports of new casualties were all too commonplace.

The New York Times

Here's why: comic improvisation — specifically, the ribald outrageousness that it aims for — has become too commonplace.

The New Yorker

"Illegal insider trading has become all too commonplace in all too many quarters".

The New York Times

Here's why: comic improvisation specifically, the ribald outrageousness that it aims for has become too commonplace.

The New Yorker

But that would be too commonplace an ending for this story.

The New York Times

Such manipulative, adrenaline-stimulating tricks are all too commonplace, and sometimes they work.

The New York Times

"Shootings in front of liquor stores are all too commonplace," the investigator said.

The New York Times

It may strike you as too obvious a choice, or too innocent, or too commonplace.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "too commonplace", consider whether a more specific term might better convey your intended meaning. For instance, instead of saying "the design was too commonplace", you could say "the design was uninspired" or "the design lacked originality".

Common error

Avoid using "too commonplace" excessively in formal or academic writing. While grammatically correct, it can sometimes sound informal. Opt for more sophisticated synonyms like "ubiquitous" or "prevalent" for a more polished tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "too commonplace" functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate that something lacks originality or is overly common. As Ludwig AI explains, it suggests a lack of distinction.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Science

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "too commonplace" effectively conveys the idea that something lacks originality and is excessively ordinary. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage. While versatile, it's crucial to consider the context and opt for more precise or formal alternatives when appropriate. The phrase is most frequently encountered in news and media, indicating its relevance in describing events, trends, and ideas that have become overly familiar or predictable. As Ludwig's examples highlight, understanding its nuances can significantly enhance clarity and impact in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

too unoriginal

Emphasizes the lack of novelty or creativity.

too ordinary

Highlights the lack of special or distinctive qualities.

too mundane

Focuses on the boring and routine nature.

too familiar

Indicates a sense of overexposure or lack of surprise.

too trite

Stresses the staleness and lack of freshness.

too banal

Emphasizes the lack of depth or significance.

too predictable

Highlights the ease with which something can be foreseen.

too conventional

Points out adherence to established norms and lack of innovation.

too well-worn

Suggests that something has been used or discussed excessively.

too pedestrian

Highlights the uninspired and unremarkable nature.

FAQs

How can I use "too commonplace" in a sentence?

You can use "too commonplace" to describe something that is very common and unoriginal. For example, "The plot of the movie was "too commonplace" to be memorable".

What's the difference between "too commonplace" and "ubiquitous"?

"Too commonplace" implies a lack of originality, while "ubiquitous" simply means something is widespread. You might say "the style was "too commonplace"", but "smartphones are ubiquitous".

What can I say instead of "too commonplace"?

You can use alternatives like "too ordinary", "too familiar", or "too unoriginal" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say something is "very commonplace"?

Yes, saying something is "very commonplace" is grammatically correct and has a similar meaning to ""too commonplace"", though the latter often carries a slightly more negative connotation of being undesirable due to its lack of uniqueness.