abiding tradition

USAGE SUMMARY

"abiding tradition" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It refers to a longstanding or enduring custom or belief. Example: The annual Easter egg hunt has become an abiding tradition in our community, bringing families together for generations.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Book publishing is filled with rituals and lore everywhere, and there is an abiding tradition of printing books in Africa.

The New York Times - Books

While a Draft Petraeus campaign today may be little more than wishful thinking on the right, the buzz alone, from conservatives who relish the idea to liberals who seem mostly to loathe it, illustrates an abiding tradition of American politics.

The New York Times

In fact, the most abiding tradition was that of an authoritarian, arbitrary government, personified as Ma-Bap (or Mother-Father), but Ma-Bep was more feared than loved, more remote and awesome than personal and indulgent; the only experience most subjects had of Ma-Bap was in terms of persecutions, exactions, and confiscations.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

The hang is broadly chronological, with occasional thematic interludes touching on some of the abiding traditions in American art: the landscape and portraiture.

The New York Times

It is an abiding Jewish holiday tradition to say, "Next year in Jerusalem".

The New York Times - Style

A perceptive modernist who harbors an abiding affection for tradition, Cowell makes a rare appearance at the Village Vanguard, with a quartet featuring the saxophonist Bruce Williams, the bassist Jay Anderson, and the drummer Billy Drummond.

The New Yorker

Mr. Brown also called on Drew Faust, president of Harvard, "to immediately correct the record with the relevant federal agencies and uphold Harvard's 400-year-old 400-year-old 400-year-oldhe tradition

The New York Times

He had an abiding concern for the traditions and dignity of the Senate.

The New York Times

Pageant Material is steeped in her long-abiding love of country tradition.

The Guardian - Music

Carrère splits himself between these two evangelists, mapping a hallowed geography that also represents one of the abiding struggles within the European tradition: Athens and Jerusalem.

The New Yorker

The Scottish legal tradition places an abiding presumption of charity in witnesses and places faith in an independent judiciary.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "abiding tradition" when you want to emphasize the enduring nature and emotional significance of a custom or belief. It suggests a deep connection to the past and a commitment to continuing the practice.

Common error

While "abiding tradition" is generally acceptable, overuse in highly formal or academic writing can make your text sound sentimental. Opt for more neutral alternatives like "established practice" or "long-standing custom" for a more objective tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "abiding tradition" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where the adjective "abiding" modifies the noun "tradition". As Ludwig indicates, the combination suggests a long-lasting and deeply respected custom or belief.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "abiding tradition" is a grammatically sound and meaningful phrase that emphasizes the enduring and cherished nature of a custom or belief. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and highlights its use in various contexts. While it's suitable for general writing, remember that, the expression is more common in news & media and might be perceived as sentimental in academic settings, where more neutral alternatives may be preferred. The phrase's rarity suggests it should be used intentionally to convey a specific sense of respect and longevity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

enduring custom

Focuses more on the custom itself rather than the emotional connection to it.

long-standing practice

Emphasizes the duration for which the practice has been in place.

established norm

Highlights the acceptance and standardization of the tradition within a community.

time-honored ritual

Suggests a sense of respect and reverence for the tradition's age.

perpetual custom

Indicates that the custom is expected to continue indefinitely.

deep-rooted tradition

Emphasizes the embeddedness and significance of the tradition.

ingrained habit

Focuses on the habitual nature of the tradition, suggesting it's deeply part of behavior.

sustained legacy

Shifts the focus from the act to the lasting impact of the tradition.

continued observance

Highlights the ongoing act of following the tradition.

unfailing practice

Emphasizes the reliability and consistency with which the tradition is upheld.

FAQs

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

"Abiding tradition" is used to describe customs, beliefs, or practices that have been maintained for a long time and are deeply valued. For example: "The annual family reunion is an "abiding tradition" in our family."

What's the difference between "abiding tradition" and "long-standing custom"?

While both refer to established practices, "abiding tradition" emphasizes the emotional connection and enduring importance of the practice, whereas "long-standing custom" simply highlights its duration. The annual holiday is an "abiding tradition", filled with cherished memories. The annual holiday is a "long-standing custom", observed for over a century.

What are some alternatives to using "abiding tradition"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "enduring custom", "time-honored ritual", or "established norm".

Is "abiding tradition" suitable for academic writing?

While grammatically correct, "abiding tradition" may come across as sentimental in academic writing. Consider using more neutral and objective phrases like "established practice" or "long-standing custom" for a more appropriate tone.