time-honored custom

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "time-honored custom" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a tradition or practice that has been respected and followed for a long time. Example: "The festival is a time-honored custom that brings the community together every year."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

"It's a time-honored custom to not pay taxes," said Susan Combs, the Texas comptroller.

The New York Times - Tech

Building on the standard 100-foot-deep lot, they set the row back an arresting 40 feet, reversing the time-honored custom of the large rear yard.

The New York Times

The spectacle is degrading, and funny, and also tinged with feminist irony since this is after all the modern drama that did more than any other to sustain the time-honored custom of blaming women for men's libidinous excesses.

The New York Times

This time-honored custom -- which is how the theater community acknowledges the passing of one of its greats -- will happen at 7 45 p.m. just prior to the curtain going up.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Wasn't it the reason the world stopped interfering with the practice of time-honored customs like honor killing and female genital mutilation?

Vice

"I am unalterably for segregation," Mr. Flowers declared during his campaign, while promising to "defend our time-honored customs".

The New York Times

The Kentucky Derby, one of the most tradition-bound institutions in sports history, will leave the gate on Saturday without two of its time-honored customs.

The New York Times

But many longtime experts on the Japanese crime scene say the descent into violence and the corruption of other time-honored customs have much deeper roots.

The New York Times

But those crimes are part of a time-honored tradition.

The New York Times

Pork barrel projects are a time-honored tradition in Washington.

The New York Times

Its style is a time-honored tradition, taught to this day in the club's academy.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a custom, provide context about its origins or evolution to enhance the reader's understanding of its "time-honored" status.

Common error

Avoid using "time-honored custom" for trends or practices that are relatively recent or lack deep historical roots; this can dilute the phrase's impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "time-honored custom" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun. It serves to emphasize the long-standing nature and respected status of a particular custom. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a usable phrase in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "time-honored custom" is a grammatically sound and widely accepted phrase used to emphasize the historical significance and enduring value of a tradition or practice. According to Ludwig, this phrase is correct and usable in written English. While not exceptionally frequent, it appears primarily in news and media contexts, lending gravitas to the subject matter. Consider alternatives like "long-established tradition" or "venerable practice" to tailor your message with the most appropriate nuance. Using this phrase correctly can enhance your writing by emphasizing the depth and respect associated with a particular custom.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

long-established tradition

Emphasizes the duration of the tradition's existence.

long-standing practice

Similar to "long-established tradition" but emphasizes the act of doing something repeatedly.

venerable practice

Highlights the respect and reverence associated with the practice.

age-old tradition

Stresses the ancient origins of the tradition.

traditional rite

Focuses on the ritualistic aspect of the custom.

established practice

Highlights the firm and recognized nature of the practice.

conventional observance

Emphasizes the adherence to established norms.

customary procedure

Focuses on the procedural and habitual aspect of the custom.

classic tradition

Highlights the timeless and enduring nature of the tradition.

historical convention

Emphasizes the historical roots and widespread acceptance of the convention.

FAQs

How can I use "time-honored custom" in a sentence?

You can use "time-honored custom" to describe a practice that has been respected and followed for a long time. For example: "The annual harvest festival is a "time-honored custom" in our village".

What are some alternatives to "time-honored custom"?

Alternatives include "long-established tradition", "venerable practice", or "age-old tradition", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is "time-honored custom" formal or informal?

"Time-honored custom" is generally considered a neutral to slightly formal phrase, suitable for both news articles and academic writing. However, the alternatives "traditional rite" and "conventional observance" might be better if you are trying to sound more formal.

What is the difference between "time-honored custom" and "time-honored tradition"?

While very similar, "custom" refers more to a specific practice, whereas "tradition" encompasses a broader set of beliefs or behaviors passed down through generations. You may use "long-established tradition" if you want to convey the meaning in a more general way.