a common tradition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a common tradition" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a practice or custom that is widely shared or observed by a group of people or within a culture. Example: "In many cultures, celebrating the harvest is a common tradition that brings communities together."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

Like Professor Hirsch, the Passover pedagogy emphasizes a common tradition.

The New York Times

It's a common tradition in both Denmark and Sweden, so it's like stealing a tradition, really.

The Guardian - Film

Early Polynesian cultures shared a number of traits deriving from a common tradition.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The holiday moved away from its religious roots to allow immigrants of every background to participate in a common tradition.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Conquered territories were assimilated through intermarriage, uniform laws, and a common tradition of enmity to the Yoruba.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The most likely assumption we can make is that both Genesis and Gilgamesh drew their material from a common tradition about the flood that existed in Mesopotamia.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

The NFL's Washington Redskins have received harsh criticism for their nickname, and many universities and high schools have made changes to logos, mascots and nicknames that depict Native Americans, a once common tradition throughout the US.

The Guardian

These stone circle burials are occasionally found near ash circle burials but these are a less common tradition in the southern Iron-Age (800 500 BC).

Plosone

In China a handful of configurations show similarity to those of the West, including the scorpion, the lion, the hunter (Orion), and the northern dipper, suggesting the possibility of a very old common tradition for a few groups but otherwise almost complete independence.

Encyclopedia Britannica

All of these diverse ethnic groups shared a common cultural tradition, but separate historical origins and environmental factors had also produced a substantial degree of regional differentiation.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The search for a common historical tradition is not, however, the most rewarding aspect of the study of Finno-Ugric religions.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using specific verbs to describe the tradition. For example, instead of "observing a common tradition", use "celebrating a common tradition" or "upholding a common tradition" to add more nuance.

Common error

Avoid assuming a tradition is common to all cultures or regions. Qualify your statement by specifying the geographic area or cultural group to which the tradition applies to prevent misunderstandings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a common tradition" functions as a noun phrase. It typically acts as a subject complement or object, identifying or describing a particular tradition shared by a group or culture. The Ludwig examples illustrate this function in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Encyclopedias

24%

Science

24%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a common tradition" is a grammatically correct and frequently used noun phrase that refers to a shared practice or custom within a group or culture. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is widely applicable across various contexts, including news, encyclopedias, and scientific publications. When using this phrase, it's essential to specify the group or culture to which the tradition belongs to avoid overgeneralization. Consider alternatives like "a shared custom" or "a widespread practice" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a shared custom

Emphasizes the shared aspect of the tradition, focusing on habitual practices within a group.

a widespread practice

Highlights the extent of the tradition's adoption across a population or region.

a collective ritual

Focuses on the ritualistic aspect of the tradition, emphasizing its communal performance.

a customary observance

Highlights the obligatory and expected nature of the tradition.

a time-honored convention

Emphasizes the age and respected status of the tradition.

an established norm

Focuses on the tradition as a standard of behavior within a society.

a cultural practice

Broadly refers to any tradition rooted in a specific culture.

a heritage custom

Highlights the inherited and historical aspects of the tradition.

a conventional practice

Similar to 'a widespread practice', emphasizes the standard nature of tradition.

a societal norm

Highlights the tradition as a standard of behavior within the society.

FAQs

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

You can use "a common tradition" to describe a practice shared by a group, like "Celebrating Thanksgiving is "a common tradition" in the United States".

What can I say instead of "a common tradition"?

You can use alternatives like "a shared custom", "a widespread practice", or "a cultural practice depending on the specific context".

Is it always appropriate to use the phrase "a common tradition"?

While generally acceptable, ensure the tradition is genuinely common within the group you're discussing. Overgeneralization can lead to inaccuracy. Be sure to check reliable sources before asserting that something is "a common tradition".

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

"A common tradition" refers to a practice or belief passed down through generations, while a "cultural norm" is a standard of behavior or expectation within a society. While related, traditions are often more ritualistic and deeply rooted.