commonsense 1 of 2

adjective

Definition of commonsensenext
as in logical
based on sound reasoning or information the commonsense interpretation of this so-called mysterious sighting

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

common sense

2 of 2

noun

as in prudence
the ability to make intelligent decisions especially in everyday matters common sense should tell you not to meet face-to-face with someone who is just an online acquaintance

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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
Noun
A lot of it's just common sense stuff that causes a lot the problems. —Peter D'abrosca , Ashley Papa, FOXNews.com, 3 July 2025 Maralyn, in Elmhirst’s telling, was almost certainly more responsible than Maurice for the couple’s ultimate triumph over nature and common sense. —Jessica Winter, New Yorker, 9 July 2025 This is a clear violation of federal law and common sense. —Ryan Gaydos, FOXNews.com, 8 July 2025 This is a big win for common sense and good on DHS for finally seeing the light! —Carlo Versano, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for commonsense
Recent Examples of Synonyms for commonsense
  1. logical
  2. prudence
  3. reasonable
  4. wisdom
  5. sense
  6. sensible
  7. horse sense
  8. rational
Adjective
  • Big consulting players like Bain & Company use online assessments to evaluate a candidate’s situational awareness, numerical and verbal aptitude, and logical reasoning before a technical interview is even scheduled.
    — Julia Korn, Forbes.com, 25 July 2025
  • Cutting ties with him doesn't seem logical at the moment.
    — Zach Pressnell, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 July 2025
Definition of logical
Noun
  • But other supporters of the former president chose to ask for prudence in negotiations.
    — Mauricio Savarese, Los Angeles Times, 11 July 2025
  • Scouting in stealth: Heat scouring for success (if) at No. 20 in NBA draft ASK IRA: Is practicing prudence essential in Heat not mortgaging future in a Durant deal?
    — Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 20 June 2025
Definition of prudence
Adjective
  • Invoking Section 15 of Article 17, the NFL wants Droney to order payment of reasonable attorneys’ fees and costs—about $12 million.
    — Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 14 July 2025
  • This projection appears reasonable considering that the current effective tariff rate of the U.S. has increased five-fold this year to roughly 16% according to the Yale Budget Lab.
    — Nick Sargen, Forbes.com, 14 July 2025
Definition of reasonable
Noun
  • There are many great cocktail books out there, penned by incredibly talented bartenders who are more than willing to share their wisdom.
    — Wilder Davies, Bon Appetit Magazine, 24 July 2025
  • People listen more attentively to the vice president than the assistant, regardless of their wisdom.
    — Gamze Acar Bayraktaroglu, Forbes.com, 24 July 2025
Definition of wisdom
Noun
  • These questions are helping businesses turn everyday items into brand moments and, in some cases, into movements created through commonality and a sense of community. 5.
    — Douglas Gregory, Forbes.com, 14 July 2025
  • Does this album feel different from other projects after achieving that sense of liberation?
    — Maya Georgi, Rolling Stone, 14 July 2025
Definition of sense
Adjective
  • The Hunting Wives consistently prioritizes steamy scenes over sensible plotting or nuanced characters, juicy twists over deep emotions or big ideas.
    — Angie Han, HollywoodReporter, 20 July 2025
  • But the different branches have been largely united over President Donald Trump’s accomplishments such as a stronger economy, a more efficient government and a more sensible approach to foreign affairs.
    — Nicole Russell, USA Today, 18 July 2025
Definition of sensible
Noun
  • Our people have a horse sense for what good work is.
    — Beth Greenfield, Fortune, 1 July 2024
  • His words of wisdom are tinged with wit and old-fashioned horse sense.
    — Valerie Fraser Luesse, Southern Living, 2 Jan. 2024
Definition of horse sense
Adjective
  • The regime’s more rational elements may eventually prevail and reduce tensions.
    — Roya Hakakian, The Atlantic, 10 July 2025
  • Collins’ no vote, in a rational world, made sense for her constituents.
    — Philip Elliott, Time, 9 July 2025
Definition of rational

Browse Nearby Words

common schools
commonsense
common sense
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Cite this Entry

“Commonsense.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/commonsense. Accessed 30 Jul. 2025.

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