The expression “(as) common as an old shoe” refers to something or someone considered low-class, uncouth, or unrefined. It implies that the person, object, or behavior in question is seen as ordinary, unremarkable, or lacking in sophistication. The comparison to an old shoe suggests something that is widely available, worn-out, and no longer of high value.
What does this idiom mean?
Definitions:
- “(As) common as an old shoe”: This phrase is used to describe something or someone that is regarded as low in status, vulgar, or lacking refinement. It suggests that the individual or thing is overly familiar and unremarkable, to the point of being seen as unworthy or unsophisticated.
Examples of usage
Describing a person (Low-class or unrefined):
“That trashy girl is just as common as an old shoe. She doesn’t know how to act in polite company.”
“Jim may have money, but he’s common as an old shoe. He dresses poorly and has no manners.”
Describing behavior or actions (Vulgar or unrefined):
“His manners were as common as an old shoe—he burped loudly at the table without an ounce of shame.”
“She’s always talking about cheap gossip, just as common as an old shoe.”
Describing something unremarkable or overused:
“That joke is as common as an old shoe, everyone has heard it a hundred times.”
“The style of that fashion trend is as common as an old shoe now; no one takes it seriously anymore.”
How to use this idiom
To describe people who are perceived as unrefined:
“She’s as common as an old shoe, always talking too loudly and interrupting people.”
“His attitude is as common as an old shoe. He doesn’t seem to care about anyone else.”
To describe low-class behavior or attitudes:
“The way they treated their guests was as common as an old shoe—no respect, just loud and rude.”
“His obsession with money and status is as common as an old shoe.”
To comment on something overly familiar or clichéd:
“That song is as common as an old shoe. I’ve heard it everywhere.”
“The way people talk about their diets is as common as an old shoe these days.”
Conclusion
The idiom “(as) common as an old shoe” is a critical or negative expression used to describe someone or something that is perceived as low-class, unrefined, or unremarkable. Whether it’s used to describe a person’s behavior, a trend, or a situation, it conveys the idea of something being overly familiar or lacking in sophistication. It’s important to use this idiom with caution, as it can be quite derogatory when referring to individuals.
