conventional wisdom

noun

: the generally accepted belief, opinion, judgment, or prediction about a particular matter

Examples of conventional wisdom in a Sentence

Conventional wisdom in Hollywood says that a movie can't succeed unless it stars a famous actor or actress.

Recent Examples on the Web

For the past decade or more, conventional wisdom has held that the United States and China were plunging into a new Cold War that would carry (as the old Cold War did) palpable risks of turning hot. — Zachary Karabell, Washington Post, 16 Sep. 2026

Especially because The Pitt had three nominees in the category — Patrick Ball, Shawn Hatosy, and Gerran Howell — with conventional wisdom favoring Ball and Hatosy. — Jackson McHenry, Vulture, 15 Sep. 2026

If the conventional wisdom holds, Bass’ tough summer means that Raman gained some momentum. — Deputy Managing Editor, Los Angeles Times, 15 Sep. 2026

For many years, the conventional wisdom on breaking down low blocks was influenced by Pep Guardiola. — Jon MacKenzie, New York Times, 15 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1838, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for conventional wisdom

• unwisdom