it's etiquette

USAGE SUMMARY

"it's etiquette" is a valid expression that is used in spoken and written English.
It is an abbreviation of "it is etiquette" and is usually used to refer to the accepted mannerisms and code of behavior expected in a certain situation. For example, "It's etiquette to say thank you when someone gives you a present."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

It's etiquette for the girls to ask the boys to dance.

The New Yorker

That said, it's etiquette among the judges to not ask each other which albums they voted for, and in their statement to us the organisers said: "There is absolutely no basis for any suggestion that the selection of the shortlist and winner is based on anything other than the views, opinions, discussions and votes of the judging panel.

Vice

It's etiquette not to keep coins and bugs for more than a week or two, 3 at the very most.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Warburg noted that it rained on the day of a garden party with King George and Queen Mary, but an equerry advised the Americans that it was etiquette to greet royalty without raincoats.

Forbes

After all, it is etiquette.

Huffington Post

If you hurt someone it is etiquette to maybe shake their hand or clap their shoulder.

WikiHow

If you are not paying a tasting fee, it is etiquette to at least buy one bottle of wine.

WikiHow

For etiquette reasons, "it's very uncommon" for people to give the real reason for their disenchantment, Ms. Pari said.

The New York Times

2. "If your lesbian daughter wants to be rude, then I guess let her, but it's improper etiquette.

The New York Times

It's standard etiquette, I think, not to take things away from a child – unless of course they're wielding a chainsaw, or a spoonful of jam next to a white carpet.

Independent

It's proper etiquette for each angler to cast, take two steps, cast, take two steps, etc., and then return to the top of the pool and proceed through again.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it's etiquette", ensure the context is clear and the specific behavior or norm you're referencing is easily understood by your audience. Avoid vague statements about "etiquette" without providing specifics.

Common error

Don't assume that because "it's etiquette", it's automatically ethical. Etiquette dictates social norms, but ethics encompass broader moral principles. A behavior can be considered etiquette but still be ethically questionable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it's etiquette" functions as an evaluative statement, indicating whether a particular behavior aligns with accepted social norms. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it signifies adherence to expected manners and codes of behavior in specific contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

33%

Science

34%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it's etiquette" is used to denote what is considered socially acceptable or proper behavior in a given situation. Ludwig AI confirms that this is a valid and commonly understood expression. While grammatically correct, the phrase appears relatively infrequently in written sources. It finds usage across various platforms including news, media and general online guides, thus making it neutral in terms of formality. To maximize clarity and precision when employing the phrase in your own writing, be clear about the specific behavior you are referring to. Be sure to use alternative phrasings like "it is customary", or "it is considered polite", for a more formal style.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is considered polite

Focuses on politeness and consideration for others.

it is customary

Emphasizes established practice rather than explicit rules.

it's the proper thing to do

Highlights the correctness and appropriateness of an action.

it's socially acceptable

Highlights the acceptance of a behavior within society.

it is expected behavior

Highlights actions commonly anticipated within a specific context.

it's the right thing to do

Emphasizes the moral or ethical correctness of an action.

it's standard practice

Focuses on established procedure or method.

it is the norm

Refers to a common or typical standard of behavior.

it is the done thing

British English informal expression for socially acceptable behavior.

it is good form

Highlights adherence to standards of politeness and propriety.

FAQs

How do you use "it's etiquette" in a sentence?

You can use "it's etiquette" to describe socially acceptable or expected behaviors in various contexts. For example, "It's etiquette to offer a guest a drink when they arrive" or "It's etiquette to RSVP to an invitation."

What is a more formal way to say "it's etiquette"?

More formal alternatives to "it's etiquette" include "it is customary" or "it is considered polite". These options convey a similar meaning with a slightly elevated tone.

Is there a difference between manners and etiquette?

While often used interchangeably, manners generally refer to individual behaviors showing politeness, while etiquette encompasses a broader set of rules and customs governing social interactions. So, while having good manners can mean to be polite and thoughtful, "it's etiquette" can mean following particular cultural norms and traditions.

What are some examples of "it's etiquette" in different cultures?

"It's etiquette" can vary significantly across cultures. For example, in some cultures, it's etiquette to remove your shoes before entering a home, while in others, it's not. Understanding these cultural differences is important for avoiding misunderstandings.