common good

American  

noun

1. the advantage or benefit of all people in society or in a group.

   In spite of our differences, we shall work for the common good.

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common good British  

noun

1. the part of the property of a Scottish burgh, in the form of land or funds, that is at the disposal of the community

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Etymology

Origin of common good

First recorded in 1350–1400

Example Sentences

Instead of erecting burdensome bureaucratic roadblocks that would stifle progress, we should encourage responsible innovation that serves human dignity and the common good.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 6, 2026

There was an underlying trust that the U.S. wouldn’t simply serve its own interests but would uphold its obligation to preserve and strengthen the international financial system for the common good.

From Barron's • Mar. 7, 2026

A lot of them just retired a couple of years ago, and they contributed to the common good.

From Slate • Feb. 21, 2026

Ultimately, it is the vote that gives us the power to communicate to political figures how we expect them to steward this powerful technology and use it for the common good.

From Salon • Nov. 29, 2025

He talked about democracy and good citizenship and about a good world where everyone did the best he could for the common good of all.

From "A Tree Grows in Brooklyn" by Betty Smith