1525–35; translation of Latin sēnsus commūnis, itself translation of Greek koinḕ aísthēsis
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
"Since it has become impossible to celebrate a match without descending into riots, the only common sense response is a new doctrine: 'zero gatherings'," it demanded.
From Barron's • May 31, 2026
Although many poor African Americans rejected the philosophies, tactics, and strategies of the black elite, ultimately moral uplift ideology became the new common sense.
From "The New Jim Crow" by Michelle Alexander
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.
