-
common sense
common sensenounsound practical judgment that is independent of specialized knowledge, training, or the like; normal native intelligence.
-
Common Sense
Common Sense(1776) A pamphlet written by Thomas Paine that called for the United States to declare independence from Britain immediately. Written in a brisk and pungent style, Common Sense had a tremendous impact and helped to persuade many Americans that they could successfully wage a war for their independence.
common sense
Americannoun
noun
adjective
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of common sense
1525–35; translation of Latin sēnsus commūnis, itself translation of Greek koinḕ aísthēsis
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Economist Paul Krugman explains in his newsletter that the shortfall is actually quite modest and easily accounted for — if the government exercises some common sense.
From Salon • Jun. 13, 2026
Edwards said "common sense would say chuck it in the bin" rather than deliver it after 19 years.
From BBC • Jun. 7, 2026
Pretty basic stuff, and statements in line with the values and common sense of the majority of Californians Hilton says he will represent.
From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 4, 2026
Yet Mr. Trump makes a distinction between conservatism and common sense.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 31, 2026
By now Big Ma had worn herself out scolding me in the names of our family and my lack of good common sense.
From "P.S. Be Eleven" by Rita Williams-Garcia
![]()
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.