adhere to tradition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "adhere to tradition" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when discussing maintaining an established custom or practice, for example: "Many families adhere to tradition by passing down heirlooms to the next generation".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Like her, the women adhere to tradition but crave change.

The New York Times - Books

Those American chefs are more likely to tweak than adhere to tradition.

The New York Times - Food

Republican lawmakers said that was not their intent, and that they would adhere to tradition and pass whatever law the Democrats want for their primary.

The New York Times

The supporters of what would become orthodox Christianity stressed the need to adhere to tradition, which was attested by the churches of apostolic foundation.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Youth can be a time of rebellion, but in the artistic sphere composers usually adhere to tradition before breaking the rules.

The New York Times - Arts

By contrast, in the "guardian" syndrome she finds a parallel set of values like: "exert prowess," "be obedient and disciplined," "adhere to tradition," "deceive for the sake of the task," "be ostentatious," "be fatalistic".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

That is especially true of fundamentalist Salafis, who adhere to traditions laid down in 7th-century Arabia, or of the small minority who hold to the jihadi-takfiri world view espoused by Isis and al-Qaida.

The Guardian

Some companies, adhering to tradition, are cutting jobs abroad first.

The New York Times

Ms. Wetterhahn adheres to tradition, using tiny porcelain nativity figures as fèves.

The New York Times

"This place adheres to tradition, so it gets a certain amount of respect," said David Sax, who has traveled the world eating at delis for a pending book called "Save the Deli".

The New York Times

But women have been disappointed that Princess Masako, 37, has been nearly invisible and far more demure than expected -- for example, adhering to tradition and walking three paces behind her husband.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "adhere to tradition" when you want to emphasize the act of following or complying with established customs, especially in situations where deviation is possible or expected.

Common error

Avoid using "adhere to tradition" interchangeably with simply "following" something new. "Adhere to tradition" specifically implies maintaining established customs, not just any set of instructions or trends.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "adhere to tradition" functions as a verb phrase, indicating an action of following or maintaining established customs. Ludwig AI confirms this is correct and usable in written English. It shows a commitment to time-honored practices.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

21%

Science

17%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

4%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "adhere to tradition" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase that describes the act of following established customs and practices. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and usability. Predominantly found in News & Media, Encyclopedias, and Science contexts, the phrase is appropriate for neutral to formal communication. When using it, consider the subtle differences between alternatives like "uphold tradition" or "maintain tradition" to best convey your intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

uphold tradition

This alternative emphasizes maintaining and defending the tradition.

maintain tradition

This alternative focuses on keeping the tradition alive and unchanged.

observe tradition

This alternative highlights the act of following the established tradition.

follow tradition

This is a more straightforward way of saying to adhere to tradition.

abide by tradition

This alternative implies acceptance of and compliance with the tradition.

respect tradition

This alternative focuses on showing deference to the established tradition.

honor tradition

This phrase suggests showing great respect and esteem for tradition.

keep to tradition

This option underscores remaining within the boundaries of the tradition.

be faithful to tradition

Highlights the loyalty and steadfastness in adhering to tradition.

cling to tradition

This suggests holding on tightly to tradition, possibly against opposing forces.

FAQs

What does "adhere to tradition" mean?

The phrase "adhere to tradition" means to follow or uphold established customs, practices, or beliefs that have been passed down through generations. It implies a commitment to maintaining these traditional ways.

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

You might say, "Many families "uphold tradition" by celebrating holidays with specific rituals" or "The community continues to "observe tradition" despite modern influences".

What are some alternatives to "adhere to tradition"?

Alternatives include phrases like ""uphold tradition"", "maintain tradition", ""observe tradition"", or "follow tradition", each carrying slightly different connotations.

Is it always good to "adhere to tradition"?

While "adhering to tradition" can provide stability and cultural continuity, it's not inherently good or bad. The value of "keeping to tradition" depends on the specific tradition and its impact on society and individuals. Sometimes, traditions can be harmful or outdated and may need to be reevaluated.