a common custom

USAGE SUMMARY

"a common custom" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to a shared practice or tradition that is widely accepted or practiced. For example: "Making a toast during a wedding is a common custom."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

Is this a common custom?

The New York Times

We agreed that this was a common custom in Europe also.

The New York Times - Food

In conservative parts of Pakistan, keeping women in strict seclusion is a common custom.

The Guardian

Also, as many homes in the city have front porches it's a common custom to see folks lounging on them, drink in hand, relaxing and engaged in conversation.

The Guardian

Nod Kulchirarak, 32, a Thai immigrant, said her Thai friends in Elmhurst, Queens, always drank beer with ice at their parties, a common custom back home.

The New York Times

The concept of marriage based on dowry — a common custom between wealthy American women and cash-poor British aristocracy at the turn of the century — grates on Elizabeth McGovern, who plays Lady Cora.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

In 2010 the presidents finally agreed on a common customs code, to avoid outside goods having to pay tariffs more than once.In this section Mercosur RIP?

The Economist

The treaty pledged the signatories to abolish customs duties and quantitative restrictions on the entry and outflow of merchandise, to abrogate all other measures having an equivalent effect, and to fix a common customs tariff for imports from nonmember states.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Its diplomats say they want fewer trade restrictions and, at last, a common customs code (at present each country collects its own customs revenue, and tariffs are levied on goods from outside the block each time they cross a border).

The Economist

abolish customs duties and quantitative restrictions on the entry and outflow of merchandise, to abrogate all other measures having an equivalent effect, and to fix a common customs tariff for imports from nonmember states.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Consider the treaty's main tenets: That there should be free trade in goods within a common customs union and that all technical barriers to trade should be abolished.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a common custom", ensure the context clearly indicates the specific group or area where the custom is prevalent. This adds clarity and prevents misunderstandings.

Common error

Avoid using "a common custom" when the practice is specific to a small group or region. Overgeneralizing can misrepresent the prevalence and significance of the custom.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a common custom" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject complement or object in a sentence. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is correct and usable. Examples from Ludwig show it describing widespread practices or traditions.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a common custom" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that describes a widespread practice or tradition. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its validity. While not exceedingly frequent, the phrase is found across various contexts, including news media, encyclopedias, and scientific publications. It is important to provide clear context when using this phrase to avoid overgeneralization. Alternatives like "a typical practice" or "a widespread tradition" can offer nuanced alternatives depending on the desired emphasis. Overall, "a common custom" serves as a useful descriptor for understanding social behaviors and traditions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a typical practice

Replaces 'common custom' with a more general term for habitual action.

a standard practice

Indicates that the custom is widely accepted and followed.

a widespread tradition

Substitutes 'custom' with 'tradition', implying a practice passed down through generations.

a general practice

Emphasizes the broad application of the practice.

a usual habit

Uses 'habit' instead of 'custom', suggesting a personal or group behavior.

an established tradition

Highlights the long-standing nature and acceptance of the custom.

a prevailing trend

Highlights the current popularity or acceptance of the custom.

a normal convention

Uses 'convention' instead of 'custom', suggesting a socially accepted behavior.

a routine procedure

Implies a standardized and frequently followed process.

a regular occurrence

Focuses on the frequency with which the custom happens.

FAQs

How can I use "a common custom" in a sentence?

You can use "a common custom" to describe practices widely observed within a group or society. For example: "In many cultures, removing shoes before entering a home is "a common custom"".

What are some alternatives to saying "a common custom"?

You could use phrases such as "a typical practice", "a widespread tradition", or "a general practice" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "a common tradition" instead of "a common custom"?

Yes, "a common tradition" is a suitable alternative. While "custom" refers to a general practice, "tradition" implies that the practice has been passed down through generations, adding a historical element.

What's the difference between "a common custom" and "a cultural norm"?

While both describe accepted behaviors, "a common custom" refers to a specific practice, while "a cultural norm" describes a broader set of expectations within a culture. Saying "tipping in restaurants is "a common custom"" focuses on the action, whereas "respect for elders is a cultural norm" describes a deeper societal value.