commonsense 1 of 2

Definition of commonsensenext

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
Adjective
License plate readers are a practical, commonsense tool that helps law enforcement respond faster and, ultimately, frees up officers to focus on community engagement and prevention. Chicago Tribune, 23 Jan. 2026 Instead, Republicans in Congress should pass commonsense reforms, such as Pharmacy Benefit Manager Reform and Association Health Plans, that would lower healthcare costs for Americans without increasing government spending. Ken Calvert, Oc Register, 13 Jan. 2026
Noun
The 2009 finding supported common sense safeguards to cut climate pollution, including from cars and trucks, the lawsuit says. Matthew Daly, Los Angeles Times, 18 Feb. 2026 They are presented as common sense and standard professional practice. Dana Stangel-Plowe, Boston Herald, 18 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for commonsense
Recent Examples of Synonyms for commonsense
Adjective
  • Whether your companion’s vibe is emotional or logical, try to harmonize with it.
    Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 18 Feb. 2026
  • Bruce Meyer, the union’s deputy executive director and lead negotiator, would be the most logical successor.
    Bill Shaikin, Los Angeles Times, 18 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • Posey seems to want to pass this off as prudence.
    Dieter Kurtenbach, Mercury News, 18 Feb. 2026
  • Having both adequate owners’ capital against insolvency and deposit reserves against illiquidity were voluntary prudence early in this historical evolution.
    Edward Lotterman, Twin Cities, 15 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • The prosecution detailed nine separate errors made by Plamberger during the climb—from failing to bring bivy gear to failing to abide by a reasonable turnaround time—which collectively suggest a charge of gross negligence.
    Owen Clarke, Outside, 21 Feb. 2026
  • Counties with moratoriums Counties use moratoriums to buy time to write new zoning and regulation for wind and solar farms, sometimes to craft reasonable laws and sometimes to craft bans.
    Elizabeth Weise, USA Today, 21 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • And in all matters large and small, progressives could substitute their own wisdom for the wisdom of God.
    Chris Roemer, Baltimore Sun, 19 Feb. 2026
  • The event will focus on wisdom and wellness, featuring engaging speakers, meaningful conversations, and breathtaking coastal views paired with exceptional cuisine, according to a news release.
    Ut Community Press, San Diego Union-Tribune, 18 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • None are credible challengers; Matt Conroy is the more reasoned and moderate of the three.
    The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 11 Feb. 2026
  • This is a time for cool, calm and reasoned debate, and for legislators to think through the consequences of legislation put forth.
    Bobby Zirkin, Baltimore Sun, 15 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • Staying here gives you a genuine sense of the city.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Feb. 2026
  • Kamaru’s album, unlike more conventionally soothing strains of ambient music, reflected that thrumming sense of disquiet.
    Philip Sherburne, Pitchfork, 21 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • However, the high price point is less sensible.
    Caroline Hughes, Travel + Leisure, 17 Feb. 2026
  • Saka was substituted at half-time — a sensible move given the tie was won and Arsenal have two Premier League games next week, including a north London derby away against Tottenham.
    James McNicholas, New York Times, 15 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • Anheuser-Busch will have to see how viewers react to its latest ad to determine if consumers think the Clydesdales still present good horse sense or represent a horse of a different color.
    Brian Steinberg, Variety, 26 Jan. 2026
  • Our people have a horse sense for what good work is.
    Beth Greenfield, Fortune, 1 July 2024

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Cite this Entry

“Commonsense.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/commonsense. Accessed 23 Feb. 2026.

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