a special tradition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a special tradition" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a unique or significant custom or practice that is valued within a particular group or culture. Example: "Every year, our family gathers to celebrate a special tradition that has been passed down for generations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Manhattan has a special tradition of open-mindedness.

The New York Times

Here in this region of Alicante there is a special tradition with the table grapes.

Cornell University

The grandfather of Karoline and Katie Shannon has a special tradition where he takes his granddaughters to the first day of school every year.

Los Angeles Times

In fact, we prided ourselves on our charitable acts of service to others in our community, including a special tradition of secretly delivering gifts on Christmas Eve.

HuffPost

Many divorced parents develop a special tradition a week in advance of the holiday for the years when their kids will spend the actual holiday "day" at their other parent's home.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

The End of Year Show is a very special tradition within the HP program.

Columbia University

Include the mother of the bride by asking her about any special traditions or cultural customs that she or the bride want included in the ceremony.

WikiHow

United want a manager who understands United's special tradition and place in the game.

BBC

With his peppery personality, his battles against vice and corruption and his radio performances reading the funny pages, the Little Flower made himself unforgettable, an apt hero for the 1959 musical "Fiorello!" His early public antipathy to Hitler expanded New York's special tradition of pursuing an independent foreign policy from City Hall, to the frequent consternation of the State Department.

The New York Times - Books

The Romneys had a special family tradition.

The New York Times

In France a special intellectual tradition, that of Cartesian logic, tends to discourage a children's literature.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing “a special tradition”, provide specific details about its origins, significance, and how it's practiced to give your writing more depth and impact.

Common error

Avoid simply stating that something is “a special tradition” without explaining why it is special to the group or individuals involved. Providing context enhances understanding and appreciation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a special tradition" functions as a noun phrase, where "special" modifies the noun "tradition". This highlights a particular custom or practice distinguished by its significance or uniqueness. Ludwig confirms the phrase's validity and usability in English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

20%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a special tradition" is a grammatically correct and meaningful way to describe a unique custom or practice that holds particular value. As confirmed by Ludwig, it effectively communicates the significance of a tradition within a group or culture. While not exceedingly common, its usage spans various contexts, including news, academia, and personal narratives. When employing this phrase, ensure to provide specific details about the tradition to enhance understanding and appreciation. Consider alternatives like "a unique custom" or "a cherished ritual" to add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a unique custom

Focuses on the uniqueness of the custom rather than its emotional value.

a cherished ritual

Emphasizes the emotional significance and the repeated nature of the tradition.

a time-honored practice

Highlights the long-standing history and respect associated with the tradition.

a distinctive heritage

Shifts the focus to the inherited nature and cultural significance of the tradition.

an age-old custom

Emphasizes the ancient origins of the custom.

a family legacy

Specifically refers to traditions passed down within a family.

a cultural norm

Highlights the social acceptance and prevalence of the practice within a culture.

a long-held belief

Shifts the focus to the underlying beliefs that support the tradition.

a singular observance

Emphasizes the rarity and distinctiveness of the tradition or observance.

a valued practice

Focuses on the importance and appreciation of the practice.

FAQs

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

You can use "a special tradition" to describe a unique custom or practice that is valued by a particular group or family. For example, "Every year, our family upholds "a special tradition" of baking cookies together for the holidays".

What are some alternatives to "a special tradition"?

Some alternatives to "a special tradition" include "a unique custom", "a cherished ritual", or "a time-honored practice". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "a special tradition" or should I use "an special tradition"?

It is correct to say "a special tradition". The article "a" is used before words that begin with a consonant sound.

What makes "a special tradition" different from a regular tradition?

"A special tradition" implies that the tradition holds particular significance or emotional value for those who practice it, setting it apart from more common or routine traditions.