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common sense

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noun

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun common sense contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of common sense are judgment, sense, and wisdom. While all these words mean "ability to reach intelligent conclusions," common sense suggests an average degree of such ability without sophistication or special knowledge.

common sense tells me it's wrong

Where would judgment be a reasonable alternative to common sense?

While the synonyms judgment and common sense are close in meaning, judgment implies sense tempered and refined by experience, training, and maturity.

they relied on her judgment for guidance

When would sense be a good substitute for common sense?

The synonyms sense and common sense are sometimes interchangeable, but sense implies a reliable ability to judge and decide with soundness, prudence, and intelligence.

a choice showing good sense

In what contexts can wisdom take the place of common sense?

The words wisdom and common sense are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, wisdom implies sense and judgment far above average.

a leader of rare wisdom

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of commonsense
Noun
At some point in the late 2020s or early 2030s, common sense will prevail. Jon Wilner, Mercury News, 23 May 2025 Jackson disregarded sound economic reasoning, common sense, and the entreaties of Bank supporters and vetoed the recharter bill. Time, 23 May 2025 Together, these factors — except, of course, the driving record — create a confusing and unfair ratemaking process that lacks not only transparency but common sense. Alexi Giannoulias, Chicago Tribune, 21 May 2025 The Supreme Court’s succinct order is a victory for the rule of law, separation of powers, and common sense. The Editors, National Review, 20 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for commonsense
Recent Examples of Synonyms for commonsense
Adjective
  • But there’s little logical argument for keeping him on.
    Michael Cox, New York Times, 7 June 2025
  • This is a logical form of thinking in the sense that AGI as an intellectual mechanism would be unable to compete in jobs that involve hands-on work.
    Lance Eliot, Forbes.com, 6 June 2025
Noun
  • Waugh: Fundamentally, Newcastle want to significantly bolster Howe’s squad while maintaining financial prudence.
    Chris Waugh, New York Times, 12 June 2025
  • The path forward will necessitate not only compassion but also prudence—and a firm grasp of the limits of what even a generous nation can achieve.
    Andy J. Semotiuk, Forbes.com, 29 May 2025
Adjective
  • LPs expect distributions within a reasonable timeframe.
    Ilona Limonta-Volkova, Forbes.com, 8 June 2025
  • Florida's attorney general can collect civil penalties of up to $50,000 per violation, reasonable attorney fees, and court costs, while minors can also pursue up to $10,000 in damages.
    Chloe Albanesius, PC Magazine, 7 June 2025
Noun
  • Many family members and friends have offered nuggets of wisdom to my son during his graduation.
    Nicole Russell, USA Today, 6 June 2025
  • When the residents of Salem last saw Hogestyn, the character he's played since 1986 was imparting some poignant words of wisdom on his grandson, Tate (Leo Howard).
    Ryan Coleman, EW.com, 3 June 2025
Noun
  • Drawing inspiration from seaside villas, the light and airy rooms evoke a sense of calm that draws the eye to the panoramic-view windows and terraces.
    Monica Mendal, Vogue, 8 June 2025
  • The full trailer emphasizes the sense of community among the crew members, showcasing budding romances, space adventures, and an explosive science experiment.
    Jennifer Ouellette, ArsTechnica, 8 June 2025
Adjective
  • That never was a sensible move for fiscal and other reasons.
    The Editorial Board, Oc Register, 3 June 2025
  • If only Larry Hogan had been prescient enough to choose a successor who would have continued his sensible moderate policies under eight more years of Republican rule.
    Reader Commentary, Baltimore Sun, 1 June 2025
Noun
  • Our people have a horse sense for what good work is.
    Beth Greenfield, Fortune, 1 July 2024
  • His words of wisdom are tinged with wit and old-fashioned horse sense.
    Valerie Fraser Luesse, Southern Living, 2 Jan. 2024
Adjective
  • This may be a financially rational move, but also a negative signal to shareholders looking for leverage.
    Alexander S. Blume, Forbes.com, 10 June 2025
  • But the over-the-top operation in South Park generated a nationwide debate, not all of it rational, and a unified response of condemnation from San Diego Democratic leaders, including four members of the local congressional delegation.
    Michael Smolens, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Commonsense.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/commonsense. Accessed 17 Jun. 2025.

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