"Common" vs. "mutual" In theory, which is more correct: We students owe a lot to our common teacher, Mr. Smith. We students owe a lot to our mutual teacher, Mr, Smith. I have read that -- maybe -- "common" is the more accurate answer -- although people avoid it because the word "common" can also mean "ordinary." "Mutual," I have read, indicates reciprocity. So maybe "mutual" is -- technically speaking -- not the preferred adjective. I should appreciate your views. (Many people at other helplines have told me that neither word is necessary. I understand that. But I have found many authors -- in the "books" section of Google -- who refer to either "our common teacher" or "our mutual teacher.") Who is technically correct? Thank you very much.