as a matter of protocol

USAGE SUMMARY

"as a matter of protocol" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when referring to a standard procedure or rule that must be followed. For example, "As a matter of protocol, all employees must complete a safety course before starting work."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

However, the departing prime minister, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, will attend as a matter of protocol.

The New York Times

As a matter of protocol, the secretary of state usually steers clear of electoral politics.

The New York Times

I left office as a matter of protocol, to clear the decks for the new president's choice.

The New York Times

But "as a matter of protocol," he said, they have been referred to the agency's Office of Professional Responsibility.

The New York Times

As a matter of protocol, as Ferrari wrote to the FIA, the latter are in turn formally required to respond.

The Guardian - Sport

— seemed to sharpen, and her face seemed to say to Cavanaugh: I might have to report this to the resident social worker, just as a matter of protocol.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

But it is a dutiful inclusion, a matter of protocol.

The Guardian - Books

"Asked why the ceremony was held in private, he said it was a matter of protocol," the article said.

The Washington Post

A Matter of Protocol For 25 years Adrianne Greenbaum has sat in the principal flute chair of the woodwind section of the New Haven Symphony.

The New York Times

That's just a matter of protocol.

Vice

Jaime Smith, Inslee's director of media relations, said it was simply a matter of protocol to fly the Chinese flag.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In formal writing, "as a matter of protocol" is preferred over more casual alternatives to convey the seriousness and necessity of following established procedures.

Common error

Avoid using "as a matter of protocol" in overly casual contexts. Using it when simpler language would suffice can make your writing sound stilted or pretentious.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as a matter of protocol" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically used adverbially to modify a verb or clause, indicating that an action is performed because it is required by established rules or customs. Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as a matter of protocol" is a prepositional phrase used to indicate that an action is performed because it is required by established rules or customs. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in news and media. When writing, it is essential to reserve this phrase for situations where formal procedures are relevant, avoiding overuse in casual contexts. Alternatives such as "according to procedure" can be used for a similar meaning. Understanding these nuances ensures clear and appropriate communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

according to procedure

This alternative focuses on adherence to a set of established steps.

following established guidelines

This phrase emphasizes the adherence to pre-defined rules and recommendations.

in accordance with regulations

This alternative highlights compliance with formal rules and laws.

as per the rules

A more informal way of saying something is done according to the regulations.

by standard practice

Focuses on the routine way of doing things.

it is customary

This phrase emphasizes the traditional nature of the procedure.

by convention

Highlights that the action is based on accepted norms.

as a formality

Suggests that the action is required, though perhaps not essential.

routinely

This adverb focuses on the habitual and regular nature of the action.

in compliance with policy

Highlights that the action is done to stay within organizational guidelines.

FAQs

How can I use "as a matter of protocol" in a sentence?

You can use "as a matter of protocol" to describe actions that are standard procedure or required by rules. For example, "As a matter of protocol, all new employees receive training".

What's the difference between "as a matter of protocol" and "according to procedure"?

"As a matter of protocol" emphasizes that an action is required by custom or formal rules, while "according to procedure" simply indicates that the action follows a defined process.

Are there less formal alternatives to "as a matter of protocol"?

Yes, in less formal settings, you can use phrases like "as per the rules" or "by standard practice" to convey a similar meaning without sounding overly formal.

When is it appropriate to use "as a matter of protocol"?

It's appropriate to use "as a matter of protocol" when describing actions that are required due to official rules, established customs, or formal policies, especially in professional or official contexts.