an old tradition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an old tradition" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a custom or practice that has been followed for a long time, often passed down through generations. Example: "Every year, our family gathers to celebrate an old tradition of storytelling during the winter solstice."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

It's an old tradition.

The New Yorker

"But we're bringing back an old tradition".

The New York Times

I think it's an old tradition".

The New York Times - Magazine

It's an old tradition, as Italian as pasta.

Independent

Reinventing Swan Lake is now an old tradition.

Independent

It's an old tradition for which there is a market.

The Guardian

2. Political subversion in the arts is an old tradition.

The New York Times

It's an old tradition and it brings the world together".

The New York Times - Sports

Some are also resorting to an old tradition among ailing newspapers of seeking a sugar-daddy.

The Economist

The Red Book is an old tradition — and I mean old.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Ned invited Anna and Belle over for Sunday dinner--an old tradition resumed.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an old tradition", provide context to specify which tradition you are referring to, especially if it's not widely known. This ensures clarity and prevents ambiguity for your audience.

Common error

Avoid using "an old tradition" without specifying the tradition, as this can leave the reader confused. Be specific about which tradition you're referencing for better understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an old tradition" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It identifies a custom or practice that has been established and maintained over a significant period. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is commonly used and grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Science

14%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an old tradition" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that refers to a custom or practice with historical significance. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is suitable for various contexts, ranging from news and media to academic writing, although providing specific details about the tradition enhances clarity. While its usage is widespread, avoid overgeneralization by specifying the particular tradition you're referencing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a long-standing custom

Focuses on the duration and established nature of the custom.

a time-honored practice

Emphasizes the respect and value associated with the practice.

a traditional custom

Highlights the conventional and established nature of the custom.

an age-old custom

Emphasizes the ancient roots of the custom.

an established ritual

Focuses on the formal and repetitive nature of the tradition.

a historical practice

Highlights the connection to past events and history.

a cultural heritage

Connects the tradition to broader cultural values and identity.

a deeply rooted custom

Emphasizes how ingrained the custom is in society.

a customary practice

Highlights that the practice is done out of habit.

a long-established convention

Suggests that the practice is a generally agreed-upon standard.

FAQs

How can I use "an old tradition" in a sentence?

You can use "an old tradition" to refer to a custom or practice that has been followed for many years. For example, "Celebrating the harvest is "an old tradition" in many rural communities."

What are some alternatives to "an old tradition"?

Some alternatives include "a long-standing custom", "a time-honored practice", or "a traditional custom", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "old tradition" since traditions are inherently old?

While traditions often imply age, specifying "old tradition" can emphasize the deep-rooted nature and longevity of the practice, adding emphasis to its historical significance.

What's the difference between "an old tradition" and "an ancient tradition"?

"An old tradition" generally refers to a practice that has existed for a considerable time, while "an ancient tradition" suggests a practice originating from a much earlier period, often with historical or mythological ties.