* General: "The common law system, based on precedent, is used in many countries."
* Specific: "The judge cited a previous case as precedent to support her ruling in the common law case."
* Historical: "England's common law system evolved over centuries from the decisions of judges."
* Comparative: "In the common law system, a jury decides guilt or innocence, whereas in a civil law system, a judge makes that determination."
* Informal: "He claimed common law marriage, but it wasn't recognized in their state."