contrary to custom

USAGE SUMMARY

'contrary to custom' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when something is contrary or opposite to an established custom or tradition. For example: "The wedding featured a buffet dinner, contrary to custom."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

During the receptions, Paul, contrary to custom, often appeared in full regalia and even commanded reviews in regalia.

The New York Times - Arts

Contrary to custom, these working mothers, even those who were married, often sent money home to support their own parents.

The New York Times

Contrary to custom the material chosen demanded big, mature voices and had a cast of only three.

The New York Times - Arts

There, contrary to custom, no outdoor prayers were said.Repressive governments try to keep the populace happy with bread and circuses.

The Economist

A pupil's parents had to pay Rembrandt an annual tuition fee of 100 guilders, a substantial sum, especially since Rembrandt, contrary to custom, did not provide boarding for these young men.

Britannica

Hume agrees, but in spelling out what this faith means, he may make life a little uncomfortable: And whoever is moved by faith to assent to it, is conscious of a continued miracle in his own person, which subverts all the principles of his understanding, and gives him a determination to believe what is most contrary to custom and experience.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Yet at least some were mailed from West Virginia, albeit unsigned, contrary to her custom in holidays past.

The New York Times

The tactical benefit of an away goal often favours the team that plays at home first, contrary to presumed custom.

The Guardian - Sport

Nilsa, in particular, is a target of loathing, as her heavy makeup and aloof manner run contrary to local custom.

The New Yorker

But the Suzdal princes came to regard their territories as private, hereditary property, and, contrary to Russian custom, they divided it among their heirs.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Dry poles are mostly used for their support, contrary to the custom at Pinang and the west coast, where the mangkudu tree is chiefly planted for propping the vines.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "contrary to custom", ensure the context clearly establishes what the prevailing custom is. This provides necessary context for the reader to understand the deviation.

Common error

Avoid using "contrary to custom" without first establishing the specific custom being violated. Without clear context, the phrase becomes vague and loses its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "contrary to custom" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate that an action or situation deviates from established norms or practices. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

20%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Science

15%

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "contrary to custom" is a prepositional phrase used to indicate a deviation from established norms or traditions. As Ludwig AI points out, it is grammatically correct and usable in a wide range of contexts. While not exceedingly common, it finds frequent use in news, encyclopedias, and wiki articles. Consider alternatives like "unconventional" or "differing from usual practice" to add variety to your writing. Remember to provide clear context to ensure your audience understands the specific custom being referenced.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

differing from usual practice

This alternative focuses on the difference compared to the typical or expected actions.

not in accordance with norms

This alternative directly states the lack of agreement with standard norms.

in opposition to established practice

This stresses the contrary nature of the action with respect to standard practice.

at odds with convention

This implies a direct conflict or disagreement with established conventions.

deviating from tradition

This alternative specifies a departure from established traditions.

against the grain

This phrase implies acting in opposition to the usual or natural tendency; it changes the figurative language.

in defiance of precedent

This implies a bold or open resistance to previous legal or customary decisions.

unconventional

This single word replaces the entire phrase, emphasizing the lack of conformity to norms.

bucking the trend

This phrase suggests resisting or opposing a prevailing trend.

violating protocol

This phrase is more specific, referring to the breaking of an official or established procedure.

FAQs

How can I use "contrary to custom" in a sentence?

You can use "contrary to custom" to describe an action or event that goes against established norms or traditions. For example, "The bride wore a black dress, contrary to custom".

What's a simple alternative to "contrary to custom"?

Alternatives include "unconventional" or "deviating from tradition". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "contrary to custom" or "against custom"?

"Contrary to custom" is more formal. "Against custom" is also correct, but it is less frequently used.

What is the difference between "contrary to custom" and "contrary to popular belief"?

"Contrary to custom" refers specifically to deviations from established traditions, while "contrary to popular belief" addresses misconceptions or widespread but inaccurate ideas.