according to tradition

USAGE SUMMARY

"according to tradition" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It is used to convey that something is done or believed in a particular way because it is in line with long-established customs or beliefs. Example: According to tradition, the bride should wear something old, something new, something borrowed, and something blue on her wedding day.

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

According to tradition, he lived to be an old man.

Encyclopedia Britannica

According to tradition, Menkaure was a pious and just king.

Encyclopedia Britannica

According to tradition, Ismāʿīl was descended from an imam.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"Things are done according to tradition here," she said.

The New York Times

According to tradition this work is carried out in secrecy.

The New York Times

This is where St. Peter was martyred, according to tradition.

The New York Times - Travel

According to tradition, Cadmus brought the alphabet from Phoenicia to Greece.

Encyclopedia Britannica

According to tradition, the first doge was Paolo Lucio Anafesto, elected in 697.

Encyclopedia Britannica

According to tradition, the Ṣāliḥ were the first Arabs to found a kingdom in Syria.

Encyclopedia Britannica

According to tradition, he said, "Here I stand; I can do no other".

Encyclopedia Britannica

According to tradition, Reykjavík ("Bay of Smokes") was founded in 874 by the Norseman Ingólfur Arnarson.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "according to tradition", ensure that the tradition being referenced is well-established and recognized within the relevant context. This enhances clarity and credibility.

Common error

Avoid using "according to tradition" to support claims that lack historical or cultural basis. Ensure the tradition is genuinely recognized and not a personal invention or misinterpretation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "according to tradition" functions as a prepositional phrase that introduces information, beliefs, or practices rooted in long-established customs. Ludwig's examples show it is commonly used to preface statements about historical events, cultural practices, and religious beliefs.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Encyclopedias

34%

News & Media

34%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Science

7%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "according to tradition" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to introduce information or practices based on long-standing customs or beliefs. Ludwig AI confirms it's grammatically correct and frequently used across various sources, including encyclopedias, news media, and wikis. While effective for attributing information to established customs, remember to ensure the traditions cited are genuinely recognized and not misinterpretations. Alternatives like "traditionally" or "by tradition" can offer more concise options. By understanding its function and context, you can use "according to tradition" to enhance the clarity and credibility of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

traditionally

Adverb that directly indicates something is done according to tradition.

by tradition

A shorter, more concise way of saying "according to tradition".

customarily

Focuses on established customs as the basis for the action or belief.

as the story goes

Emphasizes the narrative aspect of a tradition or legend.

as legend has it

Highlights that the information comes from a legend, implying it may not be factual.

it is said that

A general way to introduce a belief without specifying its origin.

it is believed that

Emphasizes the element of belief associated with the tradition.

in traditional circles

Specifies that the belief is held within a particular group or community.

by convention

Implies the action is dictated by a widely accepted practice or rule.

following established practice

Highlights the adherence to a pre-existing pattern of behavior.

FAQs

How can I use "according to tradition" in a sentence?

You can use "according to tradition" to introduce a belief or custom that is based on long-standing practices. For example, "According to tradition, the bride wears white."

What are some alternatives to "according to tradition"?

Alternatives include "traditionally", "by tradition", or "customarily". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always accurate to say "according to tradition"?

Not necessarily. While "according to tradition" implies a long-held belief or custom, it doesn't guarantee its truthfulness or accuracy. It's essential to critically evaluate the information, even if it is traditional.

What's the difference between "according to tradition" and "according to legend"?

"According to tradition" suggests something is based on established customs, while "according to legend" implies the information originates from a story that may not be entirely factual. "According to legend" has it that the city was founded by a mythical hero.