challenging conventions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "challenging conventions" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing ideas, practices, or norms that are being questioned or opposed in various contexts, such as art, literature, or social norms. Example: "The artist is known for challenging conventions in modern art, pushing boundaries and encouraging viewers to think differently."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

"As a brand, when we started out, we were challenging conventions," Mr. Westphal said.

The New York Times

In a culture that prizes and nurtures conformity, challenging conventions and beliefs is anathema, said writers, political scientists, social workers, students and educators at and beyond the conference.

The New York Times

Yet this piece – like all of the symphonies in this series – is, at every point, challenging conventions even while it fulfils them.

The Guardian - Music

In effect, Hall has brought his awareness of and connection to people with a diagnosis to a much broader audience while challenging conventions around mental health.

The Guardian

In cities like Tampa, Fla., and West Chester, Pa., as well as Santa Cruz, people are pirating a piece of that old Hollywood magic and challenging conventions on the role of public space in the process.

The New York Times - Tech

The contrarian Rivers was at his best when challenging conventions — aesthetic, sexual and otherwise — and the subject of a lovely young woman evidently did not give him enough to work with.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

A sceptical voice, the child questioning the adult, the artist challenging convention, the individual challenging authority; casting doubt on infallibility and the imposition of authoritarian control.

The Guardian - Books

He says: "We pride ourselves in challenging convention through design.

Independent

In London, she is challenging convention as a favorite to win another Olympic medal on vault.

The New York Times - Sports

As always, Mr. Lüpertz is challenging convention, or as his admirers say, confounding expectations.

The New York Times

The lobby is filled with tottering elderly people whose wild hair, mismatched clothes and keen gazes bespeak not madness or age but rather a lifetime of challenging convention.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about innovation or progress, use "challenging conventions" to emphasize a deliberate departure from established norms. For example: "The startup is "challenging conventions" in the tech industry with its disruptive business model."

Common error

Avoid using "challenging conventions" simply to sound innovative. Ensure the context clearly demonstrates a genuine departure from established norms, rather than just claiming to do so. For example, instead of saying "We are "challenging conventions"", provide specific examples of how you are doing that.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "challenging conventions" functions as a verbal phrase that typically acts as a complement to a subject, describing an action or attribute related to questioning or defying established norms. As demonstrated by Ludwig, it's often used to describe innovative or rebellious behaviors.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

Formal & Business

13%

Science

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "challenging conventions" is a valid and usable expression in English, as confirmed by Ludwig. It's commonly employed to describe actions that question or defy established norms, often in pursuit of innovation or progress. While Ludwig shows its use across various domains, it's particularly prevalent in News & Media. When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with the context and avoid overuse. Alternatives like "questioning norms" or "defying traditions" offer nuanced options. Always provide clear examples to support claims of "challenging conventions" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

questioning norms

Focuses on the act of inquiring and doubting established norms.

defying traditions

Emphasizes the act of openly resisting traditional practices.

subverting expectations

Highlights the act of undermining or overturning what is generally expected.

rebeling against norms

Focuses on opposing social norms actively.

disrupting established practices

Points to causing disturbance and alteration in existing practices.

overturning established norms

Focuses on the act of invalidating an established norm.

innovating beyond boundaries

Focuses more on innovation than on challenging pre-existing ideas.

transgressing boundaries

Emphasizes stepping over established limits or norms.

transforming existing paradigms

Focuses on the broad-scale change of foundational concepts.

rethinking accepted wisdom

Stresses the process of critically re-evaluating commonly accepted ideas.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "challenging conventions" in a sentence?

Use "challenging conventions" to highlight the act of questioning or defying established norms in a specific field or context. For instance, "The artist is "challenging conventions" in modern art by using unconventional materials."

What are some alternatives to "challenging conventions"?

Alternatives include "questioning norms", "defying traditions", or "subverting expectations". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it always positive to "challenge conventions"?

Not necessarily. While it often implies progress or innovation, "challenging conventions" can also lead to instability or negative consequences if not carefully considered. The impact depends heavily on the specific context and the nature of the conventions being challenged.

What's the difference between "challenging conventions" and "breaking rules"?

"Challenging conventions" implies questioning or defying established norms, while "breaking rules" refers to directly violating specific, often codified, regulations. One is about societal norms, the other is about explicit laws or guidelines.