existing norm

USAGE SUMMARY

"existing norm" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to refer to a rule, custom, or accepted standard that exists in a particular community, group, or culture. For example: The existing norm is that members of the organization will refrain from participating in political activities.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

Consumer behavior changes when the utility that's offered is greater than the existing norm.

TechCrunch

As a consequence, the evolutionary approach provides an answer to the question "Why be moral?" Following an existing norm is individually rational.

SEP

There is no already existing norm from which God may choose to deviate either by creating beings who are subhuman or superhuman in the way of intelligence and prospects of happiness.

SEP

Moreover, the interviewee's words are a clear articulation of the existing norm of color-blindness in Sweden and an undeniable realization that race and visible differences matter there.

Comparative Migration Studies

This study is the first to support two competing norms for women's body image the existing norm to fat talk versus a newly documented norm that some women like others who express body acceptance.

Body Image

The idea is that a normative sentence such as "You may park here for one hour" may be used by an authority to provide permission on the spot or it may be used by a passerby to report on an already existing norm (e.g., a standing municipal regulation).

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

To create new norms, you have to understand people's existing norms and barriers to change.

The New Yorker

These activities also incorporated new groups and cultures into the existing norms of Indian society.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In the short-term, it can help to tap into the language of mainstream finance, but the most profound changes come from breaking down social acceptance of the existing norms of investment.

The Guardian

AS new justices entered the mix, existing norms were re-examined; the court started taking many fewer cases, for example, eventually cutting its docket from 150 to 80 decisions a year.

The New York Times

But in much of the world China seeks to work within existing norms, not to overturn them.In Africa its business dealings are transactional and more often led by entrepreneurs than by the state.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing changes in societal behavior or business operations, use "existing norm" to clearly reference the previous state or standard. This provides a solid point of comparison for evaluating the impact of new practices or policies.

Common error

Avoid using "existing norm" when you intend to describe the desired or ideal standard. "Existing norm" refers to the current reality, which might be different from what is considered optimal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "existing norm" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence. It identifies a standard, pattern, or behavior that is currently prevalent. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a correct and usable phrase in English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "existing norm" is a grammatically correct and usable term that refers to a standard, custom, or way of behaving that is generally accepted or widely practiced. As Ludwig AI suggests, it's found most frequently in scientific and news contexts, signifying its role in discussing prevailing standards and practices. To ensure clarity, avoid confusing it with "ideal standards". Consider alternatives like "prevailing norm" or "established standard" for nuanced meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

prevailing norm

Focuses on the current acceptance and dominance of a norm.

prevailing custom

Highlights the current customary practices.

current standard

Indicates the standard currently in use.

established standard

Emphasizes the formal and accepted nature of the existing practice.

accepted practice

Highlights the widespread approval and implementation of a norm.

common practice

Indicates the norm is widely used.

conventional wisdom

Refers to beliefs widely accepted as true, often without critical examination.

traditional custom

Stresses the historical and cultural roots of the norm.

routine procedure

Highlights that a norm has become a standard way of doing something.

typical behavior

Focuses on how individuals generally act following the norm.

FAQs

How can I use "existing norm" in a sentence?

Use "existing norm" to refer to a standard, custom, or way of behaving that is generally accepted or widely practiced. For example: "The company's decision deviated significantly from the "existing norm" of employee compensation".

What are some alternatives to "existing norm"?

You can use alternatives such as "prevailing norm", "established standard", or "accepted practice" depending on the context.

What is the difference between "existing norm" and "ideal standard"?

"Existing norm" refers to what is currently practiced or accepted, while "ideal standard" refers to what is considered the best or most desirable practice. The "existing norm" may fall short of the ideal.

Is it appropriate to challenge the "existing norm"?

Challenging the "existing norm" can lead to innovation and progress, but it's important to understand the reasons behind the norm and the potential consequences of changing it.