1
Routine occurrence
Happening so often that it attracts little notice.
Example
Video meetings have become commonplace.
commonplace
/ˈkɒmənpleɪs/ · KOM-uhn-playsadjective or noun
Ordinary, familiar, and unremarkable because it occurs frequently.
Use commonplace for something once notable that has become routine or for an unoriginal idea.
What commonplace Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Ordinary object
Widely available rather than rare.
Example
The device was once exotic but is now commonplace.
3
Unoriginal statement
A familiar idea lacking novelty.
Example
The conclusion repeats a commonplace about urban life.
Use commonplace Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
Video meetings have become commonplace.
The device was once exotic but is now commonplace.
The conclusion repeats a commonplace about urban life.
Precision Matters
Commonplace overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
commonplace
vs.Is ordinary because it is frequent.
ubiquitous
Is present everywhere.
commonplace
vs.Is familiar and unoriginal.
innovative
Introduces something new.
commonplace
vs.Is common and unremarkable.
mundane
Is ordinary and sometimes tedious.
commonplace
vs.Fits the familiar pattern.
anomaly
Departs from it.
Test commonplace in Context
The contrast with 'rather than remarkable' requires a word meaning ordinary and familiar.
1
Touchscreens, once restricted to specialised equipment, are now so familiar in homes, schools, and shops that they seem entirely ___ rather than remarkable.