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.
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.
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.
私たちには共通の趣味がある。
We have a common hobby.
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.
この町はカフェが多い。
This town has many cafes (cafes are common).
カフェで勉強する人はよくある。
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).
日本では地震が多い。
Earthquakes are common in Japan.
この地域は雨が多い。
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.
それはよくあることだ。
That's a common thing.
よくある間違いです。
It's a common mistake.
A na-adjective meaning 'general' or 'common'. Used for things that are typical or widespread in a society.
この考え方は日本では一般的だ。
This way of thinking is common in Japan.
A phrase meaning 'commonly seen'. Used for observable phenomena or patterns.
この鳥はこの地域でよく見られる。
This bird is common in this area.
普通の人はそんなことしない。
Common people don't do that.
それは普通のことだ。
That's a common thing.
A pre-noun adjectival meaning 'commonplace' or 'hackneyed'. Often has a slightly negative nuance of being unoriginal.
ありふれた話だ。
It's a common story.
A na-adjective meaning 'mediocre' or 'commonplace'. Used for things lacking distinction.
平凡な人生を送る。
Lead a common life.
Work for a common purpose.