Basic Details
Word: Common
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Something that happens often or is found everywhere; not special or unique.
Synonyms: Ordinary, usual, frequent
Antonyms: Rare, unique, uncommon
Idioms and Phrases
- A common thread: Used to describe a shared quality or idea among different things. Example: "The common thread in all her stories is love and friendship."
- Common as muck: An expression meaning something is very ordinary or not special at all. Example: "His jokes are common as muck and no longer make me laugh."
Usage Examples
Example 1: In our classroom, it is common to see students helping each other with their homework.
Example 2: Peacocks are not as common in the wild as they are in zoos, where many people can see them.
Example 3: It is common to have tea with biscuits during afternoon break in British culture.
Fun Fact
The word "common" comes from the Latin word "communis," which means "shared by all." It reminds us that some things are universal and can connect people across different cultures.
Famous Quote
"The things that make us a little different are the things that make us common." - T.S. Eliot
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "common" mean?
a) Very rare
b) Happening often
c) Very unique
d) Special
Answer: b) Happening often
2. Which of these is a synonym of "common"?
a) Unique
b) Usual
c) Rare
d) Special
Answer: b) Usual
3. Which of the following is an antonym of "common"?
a) Ordinary
b) Frequent
c) Rare
d) Usual
Answer: c) Rare
4. Which sentence uses "common" correctly?
a) It is common to see rainbows after rain.
b) The common flower flew into the sky.
c) They found common gold in the river.
d) The common fish danced on the beach.
Answer: a) It is common to see rainbows after rain.
5. What does the idiom "common as muck" mean?
a) Very special
b) Extraordinary
c) Very ordinary
d) Rare
Answer: c) Very ordinary
