Translation guide
This entry covers how to express that something is common, frequent, widespread, or ordinary in Japanese. It includes adjectives, verbs, and set phrases for different nuances.
To say that something happens often or is seen in many places.
An i-adjective meaning 'many' or 'a lot'. Used to say that something is common or frequent. Often used in the pattern 〜が多い.
Earthquakes are common in Japan.
Rain is common in this region.
A phrase meaning 'common' or 'frequently occurring'. Literally 'often exists/happens'. Used to describe things that are not unusual.
That's a common thing.
It's a common mistake.
A na-adjective meaning 'general' or 'common'. Used for things that are typical or widespread in a society.
This way of thinking is common in Japan.
A phrase meaning 'commonly seen'. Used for observable phenomena or patterns.
This bird is common in this area.
To describe something as normal, average, or unremarkable.
A na-adjective or noun meaning 'normal', 'ordinary', or 'common'. Used for things that are standard or not unusual.
Common people don't do that.
That's a common thing.
A pre-noun adjectival meaning 'commonplace' or 'hackneyed'. Often has a slightly negative nuance of being unoriginal.
A na-adjective meaning 'mediocre' or 'commonplace'. Used for things lacking distinction.
To express that something is held in common or shared by a group.
A no-adjective meaning 'common' or 'shared'. Used for interests, goals, characteristics, etc.
We have a common hobby.
Work for a common purpose.
A suru-verb meaning 'to share' or 'to have in common'. Used for information, resources, or feelings.
Share information (have information in common).
多い is a simple adjective for frequency or quantity. よくある emphasizes that something is not rare or unexpected. 多い can sound more statistical, while よくある is more about everyday experience.
This town has many cafes (cafes are common).
It's common to see people studying in cafes.
The English loanword コモン is not used in Japanese to mean 'common' in the sense of frequent or ordinary. It is only used in specific compound terms like コモンセンス (common sense).
ありふれた話だ。
It's a common story.
平凡な人生を送る。
Lead a common life.