# commonly

/ˈkɑmənɫi/ (US) · /kˈɒmənli/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/commonly
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. usually or frequently

adverb · CEFR B1

often or in most situations.

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

- This type of bird is commonly seen in gardens during the summer.
- 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. by many people

adverb · CEFR B2

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

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

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

## Examples

- This type of bird is commonly seen in city parks.
- The medication is commonly prescribed to treat seasonal allergies because it has very few side effects.
- While the two species are distinct, they are commonly mistaken for one another by amateur observers due to their nearly identical plumage and nesting habits.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.