WordGarden.iocommonly
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /kˈɒmənli/
US
- /ˈkɑmənli/
Meanings
Adverb
usually or in many cases
Beyond the definition
"Commonly" describes something that happens a lot or is generally true. It's like saying "usually," but with a bit more emphasis on how widespread or standard something is. If you commonly see squirrels in your backyard, it means they visit pretty regularly! You might also hear it used to describe things that are typical or expected—for example, "It's commonly known that exercise is good for your health." Think of it as the world's way of saying, "This isn't unusual!" You will often see it in phrases like "commonly held beliefs," which highlights that an idea is accepted by a large number of people.
The word "commonly" indicates that something occurs frequently or is generally accepted as true. It suggests a pattern or habit—not necessarily always, but more often than not. Think about the phrase "commonly used phrases." These aren't the only phrases people use, but they are the ones you hear most often!
"Commonly" isn't quite the same as "usually." While both suggest frequency, "commonly" emphasizes that something is widespread or typical within a specific group or situation. For example, "It is commonly believed that cats land on their feet" suggests this belief is shared by a vast majority of people. Or, "Rain is commonly associated with autumn" means that, in most people's minds, rain and fall go hand-in-hand.
You'll also see "commonly" used to describe collective habits or practices. Saying "People commonly drink coffee in the morning" implies it's a widespread social habit. It can even be used to soften a generalization—for example, "Students commonly struggle with algebra." This acknowledges that while not every student finds it hard, it is a frequent and typical challenge.
So, if something happens often enough to be considered typical or widespread, you can describe it as happening "commonly." It's a word about patterns, shared habits, and collective experiences.
Examples
- 1
Nature
This flower is commonly found along the coast.
- 2
Medical term
The condition is commonly known as tennis elbow.
- Patternknown as
called
- 3
Formal emails
The phrase is commonly used in formal emails.
- 4
Health causes
Stress and poor sleep are commonly linked to headaches.
- Patternlinked to
connected with
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Public belief
It is commonly believed that eating late at night causes weight gain.
- PatternIt is commonly believed that ...
many people believe that ...
- 6
Age comparison
The illness occurs more commonly in older adults than in children.
See also
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- commonlyadverb