commonsense 1 of 2

Definition of commonsensenext

common sense

2 of 2

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
At a time of so much partisanship in Congress, especially related to health care, breakthrough legislation is a shining example of how commonsense policies that support patient care and innovation can achieve broad support. Josh Makower, STAT, 16 Mar. 2026 Which is why, Calvert says, California must join other states and enact commonsense voter ID and citizenship requirements that can attract bipartisan support. Los Angeles Times, 2 Mar. 2026
Noun
His techniques for figuring out recipes are varied and rooted in common sense. Pamela McLoughlin, Hartford Courant, 7 Apr. 2026 This is just logical common sense business transactions. Sasha Rogelberg, Fortune, 7 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for commonsense
Recent Examples of Synonyms for commonsense
Adjective
  • In the absence of a money tree, the only logical response to a budget deficit is to make adjustments on the expense side.
    Harvey Levine, San Diego Union-Tribune, 15 Apr. 2026
  • An injury settlement feels like the most logical path at this point.
    Sean Keeler, Denver Post, 15 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • China by contrast is beginning to look like a model of prudence and responsibility.
    Anatol Lieven, Twin Cities, 10 Apr. 2026
  • Austria retained possession of Venetia, and prudence dictated to the delegates at the Congress of Vienna that continued Austrian predominance in Italy should guarantee the peninsula against French influence.
    Britannica Editors, Encyclopedia Britannica, 12 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • The union also wants to ensure that workers have a reasonable amount of overtime, mandatory overtime and on-call hours, Beck said.
    Maya Wilkins, Chicago Tribune, 11 Apr. 2026
  • Its reasonable prices combined with the speedy, mobile-friendly claims process make this brand an excellent option for many travelers.
    Liz Knueven,Ryley Amond, CNBC, 11 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Blashill wouldn’t reveal his words of wisdom, though.
    Kalen Lumpkins, Chicago Tribune, 16 Apr. 2026
  • All the wisdom comes from the staff’s hive mind and veteran New Yorkers with discerning taste.
    The Editors, Curbed, 16 Apr. 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
  • The story is something of a palimpsest, with Romvari’s own perspective intertwining with the character’s and conveying a sense of being both inside and outside the action.
    Richard Brody, New Yorker, 12 Apr. 2026
  • What’s left is a false sense of urgency that will lead to a budget finalized mostly in the dark, with too many decisions made by staffers and lobbyists.
    Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 11 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Team devotion may not be sensible.
    USA TODAY, USA Today, 15 Apr. 2026
  • The idea of suspending the state’s gas tax has arisen yet again, a sensible idea in tough times.
    Boston Herald editorial staff, Boston Herald, 14 Apr. 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 17 Apr. 2026.

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