commonplace
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
adj.happening often or found everywhere, so it does not seem special or unusual.
adj.occurring frequently or found in many places; lacking distinctive or remarkable characteristics.
Simple“Electric cars have become commonplace in many big cities over the last few years.”
In context“While high-speed internet was once a luxury, it is now commonplace even in relatively remote rural communities.”
UsageUsually placed before a noun or after a linking verb like 'become' or 'is'.
SynonymsAntonyms - 02 C1 Advanced
n.something that is very usual or happens all the time.
n.an ordinary or common thing, event, or occurrence.
Simple“In this part of the world, heavy snow in April is a commonplace.”
In context“The sight of drones delivering packages may soon be a commonplace of urban life.”
UsageOften used with the indefinite article 'a'.
- 03 C2 Proficiency
n.a remark or idea that is used so often that it is not interesting or original.
n.a trite or obvious remark; a platitude or cliché.
Simple“The politician's speech was full of commonplaces about hard work and family values.”
In context“His essay was unfortunately marred by the inclusion of several tired commonplaces that failed to engage with the actual complexity of the subject.”
SynonymsplatitudeclichétruismAntonyms
“While Musk’s wealth, even in the face of recent losses, is extreme, dramatic disparities have become commonplace.”
“Pesticide and herbicide use is commonplace and these chemicals affect the fitness of bees , causing them to die off .”
A calque of Latin locus commūnis, referring to a generally applicable literary passage, itself a calque of Ancient Greek κοινὸς τόπος (koinòs tópos).
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.