ENGLISH
REFERENCE

commonly

adv.
US //ˈkɑmənɫi// UK //kˈɒmənli// com·mon·ly
  1. 1 usually or frequently (adv.)
    B1 Intermediate

    often or in most situations.

    frequently or usually; indicates a high frequency or a standard state of affairs.

    Example

    This type of bird is commonly seen in gardens during the summer.

    Example

    It is commonly assumed that the project will be completed by the end of the fiscal year, though no official announcement has been made.

    Usage

    Typically placed before the main verb or an adjective.
  2. 2 by many people (adv.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    by most people or in a way that many people share.

    in a manner that is shared by the public or a specific group; often used to describe shared beliefs or names.

    Example

    The plant is commonly known as 'mother-in-law's tongue'.

    Example

    The condition was commonly misdiagnosed as a simple allergy before more advanced testing became available to the general public.

    Usage

    Often used with passive verbs like 'known', 'called', or 'believed'.
Origin

Inherited from Middle English comunly; equivalent to common + -ly.

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