observe tradition

USAGE SUMMARY

'observe tradition' is a valid and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to the practice of continuing to do something that has been done in the past, or to participate in an established custom or practice. Example sentence: We observed tradition and gathered at our family's house to celebrate the holidays.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

The desire to observe tradition preserved the dome in the early era of iron and steel construction.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Now people are more open, curious, ready to listen".In a survey of religious beliefs and practices among Jewish Israelis conducted in 2009, 46% defined themselves as secular, but only 16% said they did not observe tradition at all.

The Economist

So it was chiefly the desire to observe tradition that preserved the dome in the early era of iron and steel construction, and, with rare exceptions (Halle aux Blés, Paris; the Coal Exchange, London), 19th-century examples retained masonry forms without exploiting the advantages of metal.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Shavuot for most Israelis was the festival when people eat cheesecake.In a survey of religious beliefs and practices among Jewish Israelis, 46% defined themselves as secular, but only 16% said they did not observe tradition at allSpecial report Alive and well A buffet to suit all tastes An open invitation Talmud and cheesecake More Jewish than thou Who is a Jew?

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

"You will see how Chechen women lay out a table and how they observe traditions here," the blurb says.

The Guardian

He was perfectly happy to be a cultural Muslim, take part in celebrations and observe traditions, but he couldn't pretend a faith he didn't possess.

The Guardian

"It was important for us to observe traditions".

Los Angeles Times

A scribe for two decades after a career on Wall Street, he said he observed tradition in writing the Torah, and wears a skullcap and a tallit, or prayer shawl.

The New York Times

One occasionally observed tradition has been to schedule important events to coincide with the Glorious Fourth.

Forbes

It's a solidly observed tradition, too, I think because of the dual appeal to Northern Europe's rival Christian and Black Metal populations.

Vice

This period marked the beginning of an inconsistently observed "tradition" of having a "Catholic seat" on the court.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "observe tradition", ensure the context clearly indicates which tradition is being referenced, especially if it is not widely known.

Common error

Avoid using "observe tradition" without specifying which tradition. Be specific to prevent ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "They observe tradition", say "They observe the tradition of gift-giving during the holidays".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "observe tradition" functions as a verb phrase, where "observe" is the transitive verb and "tradition" is its direct object. It describes the act of adhering to or participating in established customs. Ludwig provides examples showing its use in diverse contexts, reinforcing this function.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

25%

Wiki

12.5%

Less common in

Science

12.5%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "observe tradition" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe the act of adhering to established customs. While Ludwig AI confirms its validity, its frequency is relatively rare. The phrase appears most commonly in news and media sources, often related to cultural or religious practices. For clarity, it's best to specify which tradition is being observed. Alternatives like "uphold tradition" or "maintain tradition" can be used for similar effect. Remember, specificity enhances understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

uphold tradition

Emphasizes maintaining the importance and integrity of a tradition.

maintain tradition

Focuses on keeping a tradition alive and active.

keep tradition alive

Highlights the active effort required to prevent a tradition from fading.

follow tradition

Stresses adherence to established customs or practices.

practice tradition

Implies actively engaging in traditional activities.

respect tradition

Highlights the value and reverence given to established customs.

honor tradition

Similar to respect, but suggests a deeper, more ceremonial acknowledgement.

adhere to tradition

Formally emphasizes strict compliance with traditional norms.

continue tradition

Focuses on the ongoing nature of a practice passed down through generations.

embrace tradition

Implies a positive and enthusiastic acceptance of traditional practices.

FAQs

How can I use "observe tradition" in a sentence?

You can use "observe tradition" to describe the act of following or participating in a customary practice. For example, "The family gathers every year to "observe tradition" by decorating the Christmas tree together".

What does it mean to "observe tradition"?

To "observe tradition" means to actively participate in or adhere to established customs, practices, or beliefs that have been passed down through generations.

What are some alternatives to saying "observe tradition"?

You can use alternatives like "uphold tradition", "maintain tradition", or "follow tradition" depending on the specific context.

Is it always necessary to specify which tradition when using "observe tradition"?

While not always mandatory, specifying the tradition provides clarity and avoids ambiguity. If the context makes the tradition obvious, it may not be necessary, but specificity is generally preferred.