Grammar fix

a common misconception

widespread false belief

A belief or idea that many people have, but which is actually not true.

collocationC1occasional

Hear it in context

Notice where the phrase sounds natural.

It's a common misconception that bats are blind; in fact, they can see quite well.communication
Many people hold the common misconception that all stress is harmful, but some stress can actually be motivating and beneficial.IELTS speaking

Fix the pattern

Pattern: a common misconception (is/that...)

WrongIs a common misconception that bats are blind.

RightIt's a common misconception that bats are blind.

Lead with 'It's a common misconception that...' — you need the dummy 'it'.

Patterna common misconception (is/that...)

Use it right

Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.

Stiff It is widely and erroneously believed that the wall is visible from space.

Natural A common misconception is that the wall's visible from space.

'Widely and erroneously believed' is over-formal; 'a common misconception is that...' is the natural framing.

Build natural chunks

Words that usually travel with it.

a common misconception + that
that...aboutisdispel

Don't confuse it

Unlike 'a misunderstanding', which is about a specific failure to understand between people, 'a common misconception' refers to a false belief that many people share, often about facts or general knowledge.

Try it in Daily Speak →