Sasha
Professional Teacher
What is the meaning of word "common" in the context below? She smiled and in her pleasant, well-mannered way said the things that were expected of her; but for all her cordiality held you at a distance. She had a few intimate friends in the Colony and they greatly admired her. Kitty wondered whether Mrs. Townsend thought her a little COMMON. She flushed. After all there was no reason for her to put on airs. (taken from William Somerset Maugham - The Painted Veil) P.S.: looked up in the dictionary COMMON woman = hooker, I guess it's closer to someone from a low social class...
Dec 5, 2014 9:21 AM
Answers · 4
2
Yes, it's about being in a low social class. A stronger and ruder expression is "as common as much", which you might say about the character Vicky Pollard, for example.
December 5, 2014
Are you sure you are not describing those men are just a sexual tool ............. To rectify a grammar only.
December 5, 2014
I have never heard a common woman means a hooker, but only common market for low tax, commonplace for a usual place, and common sense for usual as well as general sense. What a strong woman to insult a female. I have never heard a hooker will feel flushed or embarrassed with so many courtships or admirers. Are you sure you are not describe those men are just a sexual tool with knowledge and education less as well in return. Just a common man fair.
December 5, 2014
Still haven’t found your answers?
Write down your questions and let the native speakers help you!