a prevalent custom

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a prevalent custom" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a widely accepted or common practice within a particular culture or society. Example: "In many cultures, giving gifts during holidays is a prevalent custom that strengthens social bonds."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

They trace their descent through the paternal line, and young people are expected to marry outside the paternal clan, but there is a prevalent custom of marrying one's cousin on the maternal side.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Mürebbiye (1895; "Governess") was a bold attack on the prevalent custom of entrusting children to the care of often domineering governesses.

Britannica

The most prevalent custom, however, is to place a cluster of oak twigs, with their brown leaves still attached, in whichever location in the home the family feels is appropriate.

Wikipedia

Similar to the prevalent custom of xenia in Ancient Greece, Uganda has made hosting refugees a national policy.

The New York Times

Trou came frequently on account of the prevalent custom of war between the cities.

The New Yorker

And while Della Casa was unfamiliar with bridal and baby showers, he stresses the necessity of observing prevalent customs and even fashions, and he devotes a chapter to the importance of ritual.

The New York Times - Books

"It's a prevalent problem.

The New York Times

His is a prevalent view these days.

The New York Times

A prevalent source of error is mistaken eyewitness testimony.

The New Yorker

Boredom is a prevalent experience in school.

Empirical Research in Vocational Education and Training

CM is a prevalent, disabling neurological disorder.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a prevalent custom", ensure the context clearly defines the group or society in which the custom is prevalent. For example, specify "a prevalent custom in rural Japan".

Common error

Avoid assuming a custom is prevalent without sufficient evidence. Instead of saying "a prevalent custom", if unsure, qualify it with "a custom sometimes seen" or "a custom gaining popularity".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a prevalent custom" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a widespread practice or tradition within a specific group or society. Ludwig provides examples showing its use in describing social norms and historical practices. For example, the phrase is used to describe the marrying of cousins on the maternal side.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a prevalent custom" is a noun phrase used to describe a widespread practice or tradition within a specific group. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is grammatically correct and is used across different contexts, including encyclopedias, news, and academic writing. While not exceedingly common, its use is appropriate for describing established social behaviors. To enhance clarity, it's helpful to specify the cultural or societal context where the custom is prevalent. Alternatives like "a widespread practice" or "a common tradition" can be used for variety. However, be mindful of overgeneralizing the prevalence of a custom without proper evidence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a customary practice

Reorders the words but maintains the core meaning.

a widespread practice

Focuses on the extent of the practice rather than its customary nature.

a common tradition

Emphasizes the tradition aspect, implying a long-standing practice.

a prevailing norm

Highlights the normative aspect of the custom.

an established tradition

Highlights that the tradition is established.

a general habit

Focuses on the habitual aspect of the custom.

a popular convention

Emphasizes the popularity and conventional nature of the custom.

a typical behavior

Shifts the focus to observable behavior.

a routine procedure

Suggests a formal or standardized custom.

a current trend

Implies that the custom is modern or recent.

FAQs

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

You can use "a prevalent custom" to describe a widespread practice or tradition within a specific group or society. For example, "In some cultures, arranged marriages are "a prevalent custom"."

What's a more formal alternative to "a prevalent custom"?

A more formal alternative could be "a widespread practice" or "an established tradition", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "a prevalent custom" the same as "a common custom"?

While similar, "prevalent" emphasizes the widespread nature of the custom, while "common" simply indicates that it occurs frequently. Thus, "a prevalent custom" suggests a higher degree of adoption than "a common custom".

What are some examples of "a prevalent custom" in different cultures?

Examples could include gift-giving during holidays, specific forms of greeting, or traditional clothing worn for special occasions. The key is that it is widespread and recognized within that culture.