Part of Speech

Adverb

Pronunciation

/ˈkɒmənli/

Definitions

• In a manner that is usual, normal, or habitual; frequently.
• In a way that is widely known or accepted.
• Occurring or found in many places or situations.

Usage Examples

• She is commonly known for her charitable work in the community.
• This type of behavior is commonly seen in children during their early years.

Etymology

The word "commonly" derives from the Middle English word "commenly," from Old French "comunement," meaning "in a common manner," originating from the Latin "communis" meaning "shared, mutual." The suffix "-ly" was added to form an adverb indicating the manner of something happening regularly or usually.

Synonyms

• Frequently
• Usually
• Oftentimes
• Regularly
• Often

Antonyms

• Seldom
• Rarely
• Infrequently
• Unusually

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In some regions, the word "commonly" might be pronounced with a slight difference in the vowel sound of the first syllable. For instance, in American English, the first syllable might sound more like "kahm" whereas in British English, it is often pronounced "kom." Regional accents may influence the articulation of the final "ly" sound as well.

Historical Usage

The term "commonly" has been in use since the late Middle Ages and was initially associated with the meaning of "in a common way" or "shared by many." Over time, it has become synonymous with frequency or regularity. It is now widely used in everyday speech to describe actions, occurrences, or qualities that happen with regularity.

Cultural Nuances

The adverb "commonly" is used in various cultural contexts to reflect typical or habitual actions, particularly in cultures with a strong emphasis on routine or tradition. In some cultures, things that are described as "commonly" done are seen as representative of a collective or societal norm, reflecting what is considered the "expected" behavior or practice.

More Information

The word "commonly" is often used to indicate a frequency of occurrence. It is useful in describing general trends, societal norms, or frequent occurrences. While it is often applied to actions or events, it can also refer to qualities or characteristics that are broadly accepted, well-known, or typical within a certain context. It plays an important role in comparative speech, signaling what is more frequent or usual versus what is rare or unusual.