HAVE IN COMMON

Human Communication

"When you discover what two hearts have in common, bridges of understanding are built stronger than walls of silence."

📖 Definition

To 'have in common' means to share similarities, interests, or characteristics with someone or something, creating a sense of connection or mutual understanding.

Examples in context

📖 Definition

To 'have in common' means to share similarities, interests, or characteristics with someone or something, creating a sense of connection or mutual understanding.

📝 Grammar Info

Separable
No
The verb cannot be split by a direct object.
Register
Neutral
Can be used in both formal and informal settings.
Transitive
Yes
It requires an object to which the similarities are compared.

📊 Conjugation Table

Tense Form Example
Present Simple have in common They have a lot in common with each other.
Past Simple had in common We discovered we had more in common than expected.
Present Continuous having in common They are always discussing what they are having in common these days.
Present Perfect have had in common Over the years, they have had many interests in common.

💡 When to Use

Finding shared interests
Use when identifying and discussing interests or traits shared with another person or group.
Example: "We have in common a love for classical music."
Building rapport
When trying to connect with someone by highlighting mutual experiences or interests.
Example: "She noticed they had in common their sense of humor."
In conflict resolution
Use to emphasize similarities which may facilitate understanding and cooperation in disagreements.
Example: "Despite the argument, they had in common a desire for peace."

⚠️ Common Mistakes

Misplacing the verb
❌ Wrong: We in common have many books.
✅ Correct: We have in common many books.
💡 Tip: Remember to keep 'have in common' together.
Using with incorrect auxiliary
❌ Wrong: She is have in common interests.
✅ Correct: She has in common interests.
💡 Tip: 'Have' changes with the subject.
Using without an object
❌ Wrong: I have in common.
✅ Correct: I have in common with my brother.
💡 Tip: Specify what is shared to avoid incomplete sentences.
Practice

HAVE IN COMMON - IN PRACTICE

Study Method Proposal

  1. Listen and repeat the audio as many times as needed to improve your pronunciation
  2. Use the audio as a dictation exercise, trying to write what you hear and understand
  3. Create a new sentence following the structure of the example sentences

Examples in Context

  • 1
    Listen to example

    John and Lisa have in common their passion for painting and exploring cultures.

    Words In The Wind
  • 2
    Listen to example

    Despite their differences, they had in common a dream of traveling the world together.

    Words In The Wind
  • 3
    Listen to example

    Often, what groups have in common is greater than what separates them.

    Words In The Wind

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

share similarities with relate to

Antonyms

differ from

Quick Check

Complete the sentence with the correct phrasal verb:

"Despite their different backgrounds, they ___ a love for classical music."

make in common
have in common
get in common
find in common

❓ Frequently Asked Questions about Have In Common

What is the origin of have in common?

+
The phrase 'have in common' likely originated from the Latin word 'communis,' meaning shared by all. It emphasizes shared characteristics. Its usage evolved to underscore connections or mutual interests between individuals or groups, becoming common in both everyday language and formal contexts.

Can have in common be used in formal and informal contexts?

+
'Have in common' is versatile and applicable in both formal and informal settings. It's commonly used to highlight shared interests or traits, working effectively in professional documents, casual conversations, and writing. Its neutral tone makes it suitable for diverse contexts where commonalities are discussed.

What is the difference between have in common and share similarities with?

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While both phrases indicate shared traits or interests, 'have in common' is more informal and conversational, often used to underscore mutual interests casually. 'Share similarities with,' being slightly more formal, suggests an observed resemblance and is frequently used in analytical or comparative discussions.

Related Phrasal Verbs

Explore more phrasal verbs in our dictionary:

share withoverlap withconnect withrelate totie in with
Browse All Words In The Wind Phrasal Verbs
Human Communication Phrasal Verbs - WeeklyCross
Alessandra Nóbrega
About the Author

Alessandra Nóbrega

History teacher who fell in love with English! This passion led me to specialize in languages and work on bilingual education projects. With 37 years in education, I believe learning should be meaningful – not just memorization.

Learn more about my journey



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