custom dictates

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "custom dictates" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to established practices or traditions that guide behavior or decisions in a particular context. Example: "In our culture, custom dictates that we greet our guests with a warm welcome and offer them refreshments."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

Islamic custom dictates that the sexes be separated.

The New York Times

Custom dictates that theater flourishes in New York.

The New York Times

Islamic custom dictates that the body be buried as soon as possible.

The New York Times

Islamic custom dictates the deceased must be buried within 24 hours of death.

The Guardian

Beyond that, Islamic custom dictates that families bury their dead within hours.

The New York Times

He has seen the Queen, as custom dictates, and requested permission to form a new government.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

Custom dictated that Peng Guoliang not stay under the same roof before Yumi became his wife.

The Guardian - Books

She snickered at the custom dictating that campaigns should "orchestrate" and "script" everything for the media's ease.

The New York Times

In the North, African Americans were not usually segregated by law, but local custom dictated second-class citizenship for them.

Encyclopedia Britannica

On the day, as custom dictated, my soon-to-be in-laws arrived to collect me from the family home.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Since custom dictated the first part be repeated, musicians tended to add a bit of "ending music" for balance.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "custom dictates", ensure the context clearly establishes what specific custom is being referenced. For instance, specify the cultural, social, or professional setting where the custom applies.

Common error

Avoid using "custom dictates" without providing sufficient context. Vague references can confuse readers. Instead of saying "Custom dictates", specify: "In Japanese culture, custom dictates..."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "custom dictates" functions as a statement of authority or influence, indicating that a particular custom or tradition determines a course of action or behavior. Ludwig confirms that it's generally viewed as grammatically correct and usable. For example, "Islamic custom dictates that the body be buried as soon as possible."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

77%

Encyclopedias

8%

Wiki

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Academia

2%

Science

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "custom dictates" is a commonly used phrase to indicate that a particular custom or tradition influences or controls an action or behavior. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across various contexts. While it is most frequently found in News & Media, it also appears in Encyclopedias and other sources. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the custom and its relevant context. Alternatives such as "tradition requires" or "practice demands" can provide similar meaning with subtle differences in nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

tradition requires

Emphasizes the compulsory nature of tradition.

convention stipulates

Highlights the agreement or accepted standard implied by a convention.

practice demands

Focuses on the requirements arising from common practice.

etiquette prescribes

Specifically relates to rules of polite behavior.

protocol dictates

Highlights rules governing formal occasions.

the norm is

Indicates what is considered typical or standard behavior.

it is customary to

A more verbose way of stating what is usually done.

established practice requires

Focuses on the formal aspect of a regular practice.

prevailing standards suggest

Highlights the influence of current standards or benchmarks.

it is the done thing

An informal way of expressing what is socially acceptable.

FAQs

How can I use "custom dictates" in a sentence?

Use "custom dictates" to indicate that a tradition or established way of doing things influences or controls an action. For instance, "In many cultures, "custom dictates" that guests bring a gift to the host".

What are some alternatives to "custom dictates"?

You can use alternatives such as "tradition requires", "convention stipulates", or "practice demands" to express a similar meaning.

Is "custom dictates" formal or informal?

"Custom dictates" is generally considered neutral in tone, suitable for both formal and informal writing depending on the context. More formal alternatives might include "protocol dictates", while informal options are phrases like "it's the done thing".

What's the difference between "custom dictates" and "tradition requires"?

While both phrases indicate the influence of established practices, "custom dictates" suggests a broader range of social behaviors, whereas "tradition requires" often refers to more deeply rooted cultural or familial practices.