in their ways

USAGE SUMMARY

"in their ways" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to describe the unique habits, customs, or behaviors of a particular group of people or individuals. Example: The villagers were known for being set in their ways, often sticking to traditional methods of farming and living despite modern advancements.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"Stuck in their ways".

The New York Times - Magazine

"Nobody is set in their ways.

The New York Times - Sports

They're set in their ways, really".

The New Yorker

Everyone knows that older people are "set in their ways".

The New York Times

"Some of them were so set in their ways".

The New York Times

They were poor, stuck in their ways and stingy.

The Guardian - Opinion

Above all they're inflexible – set in their ways.

The Guardian - Opinion

But some people are set in their ways".

The New York Times

People are often comfortably set in their ways.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

"Coaches are fairly set-in-their-ways type people," Bellotti said.

The New York Times - Sports

A set-in-their-ways, stick-in-the-mud critic is incapable of being thus moved.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in their ways" to describe a group or individual's consistent and characteristic behavior or habits. For example, "The older generation is often set "in their ways", preferring traditional methods."

Common error

Avoid using "in their ways" to describe isolated incidents or temporary behaviors. It's best suited for consistent patterns, not fleeting actions. For example, instead of saying "He was in his ways yesterday", consider using the phrase to describe a consistent attitude.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in their ways" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase, often modifying a verb or adjective to describe the manner or style in which someone acts or behaves. It illustrates a consistent pattern or characteristic approach. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is valid and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Academia

17%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

13%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "in their ways" is a prepositional phrase used to describe consistent habits or behaviors, often implying resistance to change or adherence to established customs. As Ludwig AI notes, it's a valid and frequently used phrase across a variety of contexts. The analysis shows it's most commonly found in news and media, followed by academic sources, which reflects its versatile application. While several alternatives exist, like "according to their customs" or "sticking to their habits", they each carry slightly different connotations. Remember to use it when describing consistent patterns, not isolated incidents. The phrase is grammatically correct and readily understood, making it a valuable addition to your vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sticking to their habits

Focuses specifically on habitual actions.

keeping with their routines

Highlights adherence to established routines.

maintaining their practices

Highlights the continuation of specific practices.

according to their customs

Focuses on customs rather than general behaviors.

following their traditions

Highlights adherence to established traditions.

in their own style

Emphasizes individual style of doing things.

after their fashion

Focuses on the manner or style in which something is done.

true to their nature

Emphasizes inherent characteristics guiding behavior.

following their inclinations

Emphasizes personal preferences guiding actions.

by their standards

Focuses on actions aligning with personal benchmarks.

FAQs

How can I use "in their ways" in a sentence?

You can use "in their ways" to describe someone's established habits or behaviors. For example, "The company was resistant to change because the management team was so set "in their ways"."

What is a synonym for "in their ways"?

Synonyms for "in their ways" include "according to their customs", "sticking to their habits", or "following their traditions". All of them, depending on the context, try to express similar meaning.

Is it better to say "set in their ways" or "stuck in their ways"?

Both "set in their ways" and "stuck in their ways" are correct and commonly used. "Set in their ways" implies a deliberate choice or comfortable adherence to habits, while "stuck in their ways" suggests a more negative connotation of being unable or unwilling to change.

How does being "in their ways" differ from following traditions?

While following traditions implies adhering to established cultural or societal norms, being "in their ways" refers more broadly to individual habits, preferences, or behaviors, not necessarily tied to tradition.