a longstanding custom

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a longstanding custom" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a tradition or practice that has been in place for a significant period of time. Example: "In our community, celebrating the harvest festival is a longstanding custom that brings everyone together."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Critics of the practice say it is cruel as birds are killed before they can breed, but supporters defend it as a longstanding custom.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Storytelling is a longstanding tradition among officers.

The New York Times

It's a longstanding tradition.

The New York Times - Food

Studies of bacteremia have a longstanding tradition.

Clinical Epidemiology

Medical student involvement in research is a longstanding tradition.

BMC Medical Education

Case stories have a longstanding tradition in medicine.

BMJ Open

First, as a matter of religious teaching and longstanding custom, a gemach makes no profit on its loans.

The New York Times

In a federal lawsuit asking $1 million in damages, Edgar H. Hayes, director of the Data Processing Department, charged that top county officials had sought to discredit him and undermine his authority as part of a "longstanding practice, custom and usage of limiting" the opportunities of black county employees.

Los Angeles Times

Another fan who joined him onstage was handed a guitar and, according to longstanding custom, entrusted with the three-chord churn of "Knowledge".

The New York Times - Arts

Staying overnight in another's home is a longstanding social custom that serves functions recognized as valuable by society.

Cornell University

They say that at mandatory events, the longstanding custom has been to offer a nonsectarian prayer, for example, citing God, rather than Christ.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "a longstanding custom", ensure the context clearly indicates what the custom is and why its duration is significant. Provide specific details to enhance clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a longstanding custom" without providing adequate context. Readers need to understand what the custom entails and its relevance to the subject matter. If the custom is not well-known, briefly explain its origins or significance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a longstanding custom" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "longstanding" acts as an adjective modifying "custom". As Ludwig AI confirms, the expression is grammatically sound and suitable for various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Academia

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a longstanding custom" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that describes a tradition or practice with a significant history. As Ludwig AI confirms, this expression is appropriate for a variety of contexts, including news, science, and academia. When using this phrase, provide adequate context to ensure the reader understands the custom and its significance. Related phrases, such as ""a long-established tradition"" or ""a time-honored practice"", can be used to convey similar meanings with slightly different emphases.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a long-standing practice

A slight variation, using 'standing' instead of 'custom'.

a long-established tradition

Focuses on the tradition aspect, emphasizing the length of time it has been established.

a time-honored practice

Highlights the respect and value associated with the practice due to its age.

an age-old tradition

Emphasizes the great age of the tradition.

a traditional practice

A more general term, lacking the emphasis on the length of time.

a customary practice

Emphasizes that the practice is typical or usual.

a historical precedent

Focuses on the fact that it has happened before and serves as an example.

a deeply rooted habit

Implies that the habit is difficult to change because it is strongly established.

an ingrained practice

Highlights how the practice is deeply embedded within a culture or system.

a well-established convention

Emphasizes the social agreement and acceptance of the custom.

FAQs

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

You can use "a longstanding custom" to describe a tradition or practice that has been in place for a significant period. For example, "Honoring ancestors is "a longstanding custom" in many cultures".

What are some alternatives to "a longstanding custom"?

Alternatives include "a long-established tradition", "a time-honored practice", or "a traditional practice". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it redundant to say "a longstanding tradition" since customs are often traditional?

While customs often have traditional roots, using "a longstanding tradition" can emphasize both the duration and the traditional nature of the practice. However, consider whether the added emphasis is necessary for clarity.

What is the difference between "a longstanding custom" and "a common practice"?

"A longstanding custom" emphasizes the duration of the practice, while "a common practice" highlights its widespread occurrence. They describe different aspects, though a custom can also be a common practice.