bit of tradition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bit of tradition" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a small or minor aspect of a customary practice or belief that is maintained over time. Example: "Every year, we have a bit of tradition where we gather around the fireplace to share stories."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Conversely, the goodies are people who provide a bit of tradition in a changing world blah blah et cetera and all that.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

That has become a bit of tradition for him over the years.

BBC

Despite arriving in Miami without a blemish on its 12-0 2012 record, in possession of the No. 1 BCS ranking and boasting quite a bit of tradition, Kelly's Notre Dame team will take the field as an underdog as far as oddsmakers are concerned.

Huffington Post

It' s a bit of tradition but … you should reflect on it.

BMC Public Health

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

So it's a bit of a tradition?

Independent

Female-fronted pop songs are becoming a bit of a tradition on the blog this year.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Australian pop singers have a bit of a tradition of going against the grain when it comes to Christmas songs.

The Guardian - Music

It's a bit of a tradition for the now Lib Dem leader to show up with the Hallam players in his Sheffield constituency.

Independent

Last week Prof. Michael W. McConnell displayed a bit of this tradition when he was questioned about some of his openly conservative writings by the members of the Senate Judiciary Committee.

The New York Times

But at least 300 million years of evolutionary history isn't a bad track record for an essential bit of Christmas tradition.

The Guardian

The prize list being an anticlimax is becoming a bit of a tradition, but need not lessen any satisfaction at this festival.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "bit of tradition" to refer to a small but meaningful element of a larger customary practice or belief. It adds a nuanced understanding of how traditions are maintained and experienced.

Common error

Avoid using "bit of tradition" when referring to core or fundamental aspects of a tradition. Reserve it for minor, albeit important, elements.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bit of tradition" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically acts as a subject complement or object in a sentence, describing or identifying a particular aspect of a larger tradition. Ludwig shows that the phrase is often used to highlight a small but meaningful element of a customary practice.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "bit of tradition" is a grammatically sound and meaningful way to refer to a small but significant element within a larger custom or belief system. While Ludwig identifies its frequency as uncommon, it is used across a range of reputable sources, particularly in news and media. It is best used to highlight specific aspects of tradition rather than the entirety, avoiding overstatement. Alternatives such as "element of tradition" or "aspect of tradition" offer nuanced substitutions. Ultimately, understanding its proper usage ensures clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

element of tradition

Focuses on a specific component or part of a tradition.

aspect of tradition

Highlights a particular facet or angle of a tradition.

piece of tradition

Implies a distinct, often tangible, part of a tradition.

hint of tradition

Suggests a subtle or understated presence of tradition.

touch of tradition

Similar to 'hint', but perhaps slightly more pronounced.

sense of tradition

Refers to a feeling or awareness of tradition.

degree of tradition

Indicates the extent or intensity of tradition present.

legacy of tradition

Emphasizes the inherited or enduring nature of tradition.

strain of tradition

Suggests a specific line or variant within a broader tradition.

vestige of tradition

Implies a remaining trace of a tradition that may be fading.

FAQs

What does "bit of tradition" mean?

A "bit of tradition" refers to a small or minor aspect of a customary practice or belief that has been maintained over time. It highlights a specific element rather than the entirety of the tradition.

How can I use "bit of tradition" in a sentence?

You might say, "Every year, we have a "bit of tradition" where we gather around the fireplace to share stories."

Are there alternatives to "bit of tradition"?

Yes, you can use alternatives like "element of tradition", "aspect of tradition", or "piece of tradition" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it always correct to say "bit of tradition"?

Yes, "bit of tradition" is correct and usable in written English. However, it is best suited for referring to smaller, less central aspects of a tradition. For more significant elements, other phrases might be more appropriate.