commonly

The word “commonly” means usually; in most cases. In plain terms, generally, or in most cases — a way of saying "usually" a bit more formally.

“Commonly” is pronounced KO-muhn-lee (/ˈkɑmənli/ in IPA).

Here is “commonly” used in a sentence: “This mistake is commonly made by beginners.”

Words with a similar meaning to “commonly” include most of the time.

“Commonly” is an adverb.

“Commonly” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.

Both adverbs mean "in most cases," but usually emphasizes what happens most of the time in a sequence of events, while commonly emphasizes what is widespread across people, places, or examples. "She usually walks to work" describes a habit; "the plant is commonly found in gardens" describes wide distribution.

Commonly usually sits in mid position, before the main verb or after "be": "This error is commonly made by beginners." It also appears directly before a past participle in phrases such as "commonly used," "commonly found," and "commonly known." Starting a sentence with it is possible but less frequent.

Commonly is neutral and fits both everyday and academic writing, though it is especially frequent in factual and scientific prose, as in "a commonly prescribed drug." In casual conversation, speakers often prefer "usually" or "a lot of the time."