What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
generic
Example
I bought a generic brand of cereal instead of the name brand. [generic: adjective]
Example
The term 'fruit' is too generic, we need to be more specific. [generic: adjective]
Example
The movie had a generic plot that was predictable. [generic: adjective]
common
Example
The flu is a common illness during the winter months. [common: adjective]
Example
It's common for people to feel nervous before a job interview. [common: adjective]
Example
The two species have a common ancestor. [common: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Common is a more commonly used word than generic in everyday language. Common is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while generic is more specific and often used in the context of products or terms.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between generic and common?
Both generic and common are relatively neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
