Translation guide
The English word "common" covers several distinct meanings. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression based on whether they mean something is frequent, shared, ordinary, or public.
It's a common mistake.
We have a common goal.
He's just a common man.
Describing something that occurs many times or is widespread.
A natural, everyday phrase meaning 'common' in the sense of something that happens often. It literally means 'exists often'.
Earthquakes are common in this area.
That kind of mistake is common.
Means 'general' or 'common' in the sense of being typical or widespread. Slightly more formal than よくある.
Means 'commonplace' or 'ordinary', often with a nuance of being unremarkable or cliché. Used before nouns.
Describing something that belongs to or is used by multiple people or groups.
The most direct way to say 'common' in the sense of shared. It is an adjective that modifies a noun.
Describing something that is average, typical, or not exceptional.
The most common and versatile word for 'ordinary' or 'normal'. It can describe people, things, or situations.
Describing something that is accessible to all people, like public property or knowledge.
Refers to public facilities, spaces, or interests. It is the standard term for 'common' in the sense of communal.
Describing something that exists in large numbers or over a wide area.
Used for things like technology, ideas, or practices that have become widespread.
Both can translate 'common', but 普通 (futsū) emphasizes normality or averageness, while 一般的 (ippanteki) emphasizes being widespread or typical of a group. 普通のサラリーマン (a typical office worker) vs. 一般的な名字 (a common surname).
The English phrase 'common sense' is not translated as 共通の感覚. The natural Japanese equivalent is 常識 (jōshiki). Saying 共通の感覚 would be confusing.
That surname is very common in this region.
ありふれた話だが、本当にあったことだ。
It's a common story, but it really happened.
We have a common friend.
They share a common hobby.
Emphasizes joint ownership or use, like a shared space or resource.
This apartment has a common laundry room.
He's a common office worker.
I think that's a common reaction.
Means 'mediocre' or 'commonplace', often with a slightly negative nuance of being unremarkable.
I lead a common, uneventful life.
Describes something as 'common' in the sense of being for the masses or down-to-earth, often used for food or culture.
This restaurant has a nice, common-man atmosphere.
This is a common/public space.
We should consider the common good.
Means 'general public' or 'ordinary people'. It is often used in contexts like 'common knowledge' or 'open to the public'.
That's common knowledge.
Smartphones are common all over the world.
Means 'prevalent' or 'widespread', but often has a negative connotation (e.g., disease, crime). Use with caution.
Often implies something undesirable is spreading.
Malaria is common in that region.
They have nothing in common.