tradition has it

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tradition has it" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to introduce a commonly held belief or story that has been passed down through generations. Example: "Tradition has it that the town's founding was celebrated with a grand feast every year."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

As tribal tradition has it, justice in this sort of case follows its own rules, but it never wavers on the necessity of killing a true wiindigoo.

The New York Times - Books

Tradition has it.

The Guardian - Money

Philosophical tradition has it that meaning implies reference.

The New York Times

TRADITION has it that boys are good at counting and girls are good at reading.

The Economist

If the bride's family retained the shoes, tradition has it that Kamal would rule the household.

The New York Times

Another level down is the necropolis where tradition has it that St. Peter was buried.

The New York Times - Travel

Tradition has it that if your lei floats back to shore, you will return to Hawaii.

The New York Times - Travel

"Tradition has it": three words to strike terror into the souls of the sane.

The Guardian - Money

Was it the fruit of paradise, as Islamic tradition has it?

The New Yorker

The tradition has it that if the groundhog can't see his shadow, it means warm weather is on the way.

Independent

Tradition has it that Columbus himself stayed here in 1492, before continuing his great voyage of discovery.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "tradition has it" to introduce information that is widely accepted or believed, but may not be definitively proven. It adds a sense of historical or cultural context to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "tradition has it" as a substitute for factual evidence. Always verify claims, especially when presenting them in a formal or academic context. It's important to make sure your readers know that the information based on "tradition" isn't necessarily verified fact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tradition has it" functions as an idiomatic expression used to introduce information that is based on common belief or historical accounts, rather than verifiable fact. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is considered grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "tradition has it" serves as an idiomatic way to introduce information rooted in common belief rather than verifiable fact. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While frequently found in news, encyclopedias and wiki, its use in academic or scientific writing should be judicious. Alternatives include phrases such as "it is said" or "legend says". Use "tradition has it" to lend cultural or historical context, but always cross-reference with reliable sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is traditionally believed

More formal and emphasizes the element of traditional belief.

popular belief holds

Highlights that the information is based on what many people believe.

it is said

Simpler and more general way of indicating a widely held belief or rumor.

the common wisdom is

Highlights a widely accepted idea or piece of knowledge.

according to folklore

Indicates a belief rooted in traditional stories and cultural practices.

legend says

Specifically refers to information passed down through legends.

the story goes

Introduces a narrative or anecdote that is popularly known.

history suggests

Implies that historical evidence supports a particular claim.

custom dictates

Focuses on how tradition influences specific behaviors or actions.

it is a longstanding custom

Emphasizes the historical aspect of a practice or belief.

FAQs

How can I use "tradition has it" in a sentence?

Use "tradition has it" to introduce a belief or story passed down through generations, like: "Tradition has it that the town's name originates from a legendary event."

What's a good alternative to saying "tradition has it"?

Alternatives include "it is said", "legend says", or "popular belief holds" depending on the specific context.

Is "tradition has it" formal or informal?

"Tradition has it" is generally considered neutral in formality. It can be used in both casual and more formal writing, but avoid overusing it in highly academic or scientific contexts, where direct evidence is preferred.

Can I use "tradition has it" when the information is not necessarily true?

Yes, the phrase implies that the information is based on common belief or historical accounts rather than verified fact. It is appropriate to use when presenting information that is widely accepted but not definitively proven.