traditional meaning

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "traditional meaning" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the established or historical interpretation of a word, phrase, or concept. Example: "The traditional meaning of the term 'family' has evolved over the years, reflecting changes in societal norms."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

It is ambiguous, because the traditional meaning of the verb is "to approve," not "to penalize".

The New York Times

Major collecting of traditional — meaning premodern — Asian art ended around the same time, for different reasons.

The New York Times - Arts

However, in practice it often has departed from this traditional meaning.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This suggests that the traditional meaning of a redouble in this situation has a flaw.

The New York Times - Arts

The traditional meaning of racial passing, of course, is a black person pretending to be white.

The New York Times - Magazine

For added confusion, the traditional meaning is often just as valid and widely used.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

There are symbolic motifs whose traditional meanings scholars might explain, but visionary picture making is not what they're about.

The New York Times - Arts

These criticisms have emphasised the continuing significance of deep and lasting emotional attachments and bonds of care (e.g. Smart 2007) and the reshaping of traditional meanings and practices of intimate life in response to changing socioeconomic circumstances (e.g. Jackson et al 2013).

The Journal of Chinese Sociology

Once this process begins, continues, and is repeated often enough, these words and the public's understanding of them can return to their traditional meanings.

Huffington Post

York University Professor Alison Halsall said of this aspect of the episode, "Again, Parker and Stone blur the sacred and the profane, in this instance, to gut holidays of their traditional meanings".

Wikipedia

Despite these traditional meanings, the rise of residential schools which removed Aboriginal children from their families in order to 'educate' them in Western and Christian ways, introduced, or forced, these ways of thinking onto their existing cultures.

BMC Women's Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Using "traditional meaning" can add depth and historical context to your writing, demonstrating an understanding of the subject's origins and development.

Common error

Avoid using "traditional meaning" without providing context, especially when addressing diverse audiences. Clearly define what constitutes the "traditional meaning" to prevent misinterpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "traditional meaning" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically modifies another noun or verb, providing context by specifying that a particular interpretation is the established or historical one. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

22%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

6%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "traditional meaning" is a common and grammatically correct term used to denote the established or historical interpretation of a word, phrase, or concept. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely accepted. When using this phrase, ensure clarity by providing context, especially when contrasting it with modern interpretations. Alternatives include "conventional interpretation" or "historical definition", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Its frequent appearance in News & Media and Science contexts indicates broad applicability across different types of writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

conventional interpretation

Focuses on the widely accepted understanding rather than the historical one.

historical definition

Emphasizes the definition as it was understood in the past.

original sense

Highlights the initial understanding or connotation.

established meaning

Indicates a meaning that is well-recognized and accepted.

customary usage

Refers to how the term is commonly used or understood.

accepted interpretation

Highlights a meaning that is generally agreed upon.

long-established sense

Stresses the long-standing nature of the meaning.

time-honored meaning

Indicates a meaning respected due to its age and history.

classic definition

Implies a standard and widely known definition.

orthodox interpretation

Refers to a meaning that adheres to established or traditional beliefs.

FAQs

How can I use "traditional meaning" in a sentence?

You can use "traditional meaning" to contrast a past definition with a modern one, as in: "The "traditional meaning" of 'family' differs greatly from contemporary definitions".

What are some alternatives to "traditional meaning"?

Alternatives include "conventional interpretation", "historical definition", or "original sense", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "traditional meaning" or "historical meaning"?

While both are valid, ""traditional meaning"" often implies a cultural or societal context, whereas "historical meaning" focuses more on the literal evolution of the definition.

Why is understanding the "traditional meaning" important?

Understanding the ""traditional meaning"" of a concept provides valuable context and helps avoid misinterpretations when discussing its evolution or current application.