break with tradition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'break with tradition' is correct and usable in written English.
It is usually used to mean to challenge, reject, or change accepted ideas or established customs or practices. For example: In order to attract a younger demographic, the museum decided to break with tradition and expand their online presence.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We need a substantial break with tradition.

The Economist

The break with tradition is not complete.

The Washington Post

The Body Cardio doesn't break with tradition.

The Guardian - Tech

So why the break with tradition?

The New York Times

Crucially, he helped them break with tradition.

The Guardian - Music

The name Generation is itself a break with tradition.

The New York Times

How decisive a break with tradition did Warhol bring about?

The New Yorker

Finally, it was not to unnecessarily break with tradition.

Encyclopedia Britannica

That is a big break with tradition indeed.

The Economist

"I do not pretend to break with tradition," he said.

The New York Times - Food

The break with tradition was startling — what could explain it?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for innovation or change, use "break with tradition" to emphasize a deliberate departure from established norms.

Common error

Avoid using "break with tradition" when referring to minor deviations or personal preferences; reserve it for significant shifts in established practices or beliefs.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "break with tradition" functions as a verb phrase, indicating an action of departing from established norms or customs. Ludwig examples illustrate its use across various contexts, emphasizing a deliberate shift or rejection of conventional practices. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Science

5%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "break with tradition" is a verb phrase used to describe a deliberate departure from established norms or customs. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and frequently used, particularly in News & Media. The phrase serves to highlight significant changes and their implications, often in the context of innovation or reform. While suitable for various registers, it's crucial to reserve it for substantial shifts rather than minor deviations. Consider alternatives like "abandon convention" or "challenge the status quo" to fine-tune your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

move away from tradition

This suggests a gradual shift or distancing from established practices, indicating a less abrupt change.

deviate from the norm

This indicates a departure from what is considered standard or typical, focusing on the act of differing from the usual.

reject convention

This phrase implies a deliberate refusal to accept established customs, highlighting the act of dismissal.

abandon convention

This suggests a complete rejection of established customs, differing in the degree of departure from the original phrase.

defy norms

This phrase implies actively resisting established standards, adding an element of opposition not explicitly present in the original.

challenge the status quo

This suggests questioning or contesting existing power structures and customs, implying a more confrontational approach.

rebel against custom

This phrase conveys a sense of active resistance to established customs, adding a stronger emotional tone.

transgress established practice

This implies violating or going beyond accepted practices, suggesting a more formal or serious breach.

disrupt the established order

This suggests a forceful change to the existing system, differing in the intensity of the impact.

step outside the box

This implies thinking creatively and unconventionally, focusing on innovative approaches rather than direct rejection of tradition.

FAQs

How can I use "break with tradition" in a sentence?

You can use "break with tradition" to describe a deliberate departure from established norms or customs. For example, "The new CEO decided to "break with tradition" and implement a more flexible work policy".

What are some alternatives to "break with tradition"?

Alternatives include "abandon convention", "defy norms", or "challenge the status quo", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "break with tradition" in formal writing?

Yes, "break with tradition" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when discussing significant changes or deviations from established practices in business, academia, or politics.

What's the difference between "break with tradition" and "modify tradition"?

"Break with tradition" implies a complete departure or rejection of a custom, while "modify tradition" suggests making alterations or adjustments to an existing practice. They differ in the degree of change involved.