common sense

[kom-uhn sens]

noun

1. sound practical judgment that is independent of specialized knowledge, training, or the like; normal native intelligence.

common sense

noun

1. plain ordinary good judgment; sound practical sense

adjective

1. inspired by or displaying sound practical sense

Common Sense

1. (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.

Other Word Forms

• common-sense adjective
• commonsense adjective
• commonsensical adjective
• commonsensible adjective
• commonsensically adverb
• commonsensibly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of common sense¹

1525–35; translation of Latin sēnsus commūnis, itself translation of Greek koinḕ aísthēsis

Example Sentences

Gun-control advocates said Hawaii had enacted a “common sense law that prohibits carrying firearms on others’ private property” which is open to the public.”

From Los Angeles Times

His decision is also based on sound common sense, with Bellingham starting only one game for Real Madrid, the 5-2 loss to Atletico Madrid, after shoulder surgery.

From BBC

"It would be like winning four lotteries in a row. You've got to use a bit of common sense and be sensible and logical about it."

From BBC

“It is reckless and betrays both common sense and public trust.”

From Los Angeles Times

“With goodwill and common sense, I believe we can come up with ways to do this, without vilifying and demonizing children.”

From Salon

Related Words

• good sense www.thesaurus.com
• horse sense 
• intelligence 
• practicality 
• rationality 
• rule of thumb 
• sense 
• sound judgment www.thesaurus.com
• sound sense www.thesaurus.com
• wisdom 
• wit