defying convention

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "defying convention" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe actions or ideas that go against established norms or traditional practices. Example: "Her artwork is truly unique, defying convention and challenging viewers to think differently about beauty."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

By defying convention.

The New York Times

H.F.M. wore a striped button-down, and, defying convention, jeans.

The New Yorker

But the Grand Band is defying convention with performances by six pianists.

The New York Times - Arts

(Defying convention, the president has not invited Mr Ghalibaf to cabinet meetings).

The Economist

Wright helped edit Owen's New Harmony Gazette and, defying convention, took to the lecture platform.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Perhaps defying convention, the Staten Island Museum will be feting the bugs.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

It is difficult to tell because the dollar has had a habit, recently, of defying conventions.

The New York Times

In "Defying Conventions," Steve Coll takes stock of the D.N.C. and the summer of discontent.

The New Yorker

With Steve Coll August 1, 2016 Illustration by Tom Bachtell In "Defying Conventions," Steve Coll takes stock of the D.N.C. and the summer of discontent.

The New Yorker

But some nominations for the Golden Globe Awards next Sunday defy convention.

The New York Times

Mr. Brouse also defied convention in structuring the Sport Utility Vehicle Owners Association.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "defying convention" to highlight a deliberate act of nonconformity, especially when someone is consciously breaking from established norms to achieve a specific goal.

Common error

Avoid using "defying convention" when simply describing a minor deviation from routine. Reserve it for instances where the departure from norms is significant and intentional.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "defying convention" primarily functions as a verb phrase acting as a modifier. It describes the manner in which an action is performed, indicating that it goes against established norms or traditional practices. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Encyclopedias

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Science

2%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "defying convention" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression that signifies a deliberate departure from established norms. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is appropriate for use in a variety of contexts, particularly in news and media, where it highlights innovative or rebellious actions. While generally neutral to formal, it is important to reserve its use for instances where the deviation from norms is significant and intentional. Alternatives such as "challenging norms" or "breaking the mold" can be used to provide a slightly different nuance. The expression is considered reliable and used in authoritative sources like The New York Times or The Guardian.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

breaking the mold

Highlights the act of creating something new and different from the usual.

challenging norms

Focuses on the act of questioning and confronting established standards.

going against the grain

Implies acting in opposition to the prevailing attitude or trend.

bucking the trend

Specifically refers to resisting a current fashion or popular direction.

rejecting tradition

Emphasizes a conscious choice to move away from established customs.

subverting expectations

Focuses on frustrating or undermining what is anticipated.

disrupting the status quo

Indicates a forceful challenge to the existing order.

innovating beyond boundaries

Stresses pushing past limitations to create something groundbreaking.

transgressing norms

Highlights the act of violating established social rules.

reimagining standards

Focuses on redefining or rethinking established criteria.

FAQs

How can I use "defying convention" in a sentence?

You can use "defying convention" to describe actions or ideas that go against established norms. For example: "Her approach to painting was "defying convention", using unconventional materials and techniques."

What are some alternatives to "defying convention"?

Alternatives include "challenging norms", "rejecting tradition", or "breaking the mold" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always positive to describe something as "defying convention"?

Not necessarily. While it often implies innovation and progress, "defying convention" can also be seen negatively if the established norms are disregarded without good reason or if the result is undesirable.

What's the difference between "defying convention" and "ignoring convention"?

Defying convention suggests an active and often deliberate act of challenging norms, while "ignoring convention" implies a passive disregard for established practices, possibly without conscious intent.