common denominator

NOUN

common factor

Synonyms

WEAK

common divisor common measure denominator numerator

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“First principles thinking to me is the lowest common denominator of the problem in the elements of the problem—so like I think about breaking the problem down to…atomic level,” McNeill said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 28, 2026

If Gellar didn’t have such a spellbinding screen presence, one might think she was the common denominator factor in all of these failed series.

From Salon • Mar. 26, 2026

The common denominator: Even when leagues investigate aggressively, the current system relies on prosecutors to finish the job.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 18, 2026

New York is projected throughout the show, but the GPS coordinates are more precisely those of an American musical that has lost its way trying to appeal to the lowest common denominator.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 19, 2025

But theft was the one unforgivable sin, the common denominator of all sins.

From "The Kite Runner" by Khaled Hosseini