traditional responsibility

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "traditional responsibility" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to duties or obligations that are typically associated with a particular culture, role, or context, often passed down through generations. Example: "In many cultures, caring for the elderly is seen as a traditional responsibility of the family."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

His family were samurai of a low but honourable rank whose traditional responsibility was that of serving in the feudal lord's bodyguard.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Quaestor, ( Latin: "investigator") plural quaestors, or quaestores, the lowest ranking regular magistrate in ancient Rome, whose traditional responsibility was the treasury.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"While clearly underlining the United Nations' traditional responsibility for peace and security, he has also emphasized its obligations with regard to human rights," it said.

The New York Times

They're suspicious of the servants and resentful of the patrician survivors who feel a traditional responsibility for the people who worked for them – first on the land and then in the city.

The Guardian - Film

No attention has been paid to the traditional responsibility of owners for their property.

Forbes

It is the traditional responsibility of the gentry to do the dangerous, foolish things in life.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

Trapped in "a quagmire of nonjudgmentalism," and "an infantile lack of behavioral restraint," American adults have abdicated their traditional responsibilities, refused to grow up and adopted a "whatever" passivity to each and every moral challenge thrown their way.

The New York Times - Books

But even for families that put a premium on education, formal schooling for their children can often be interrupted by typhoons, hurricanes and, for girls, traditional responsibilities such as tending to ailing relatives.

The New York Times

And many librarians note that in addition to their traditional responsibilities, they now must supervise computer use, help with database research and teach many people how to use the Internet.

The New York Times

"It" being the freedom and flow of a life lived untethered from traditional responsibilities; a life without roots, deracinated.

BBC

Like in other developing economies, men tend to migrate for jobs, and women are tied up with their traditional responsibilities and face greater economic insecurity after disasters.

International Journal of Disaster Risk Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing roles or duties that are strongly tied to specific cultural or historical contexts, using the phrase "traditional responsibility" can effectively convey the weight of those expectations. For broader applications, use more direct alternatives like "customary duty".

Common error

Avoid applying the term "traditional responsibility" loosely to contemporary duties that are not genuinely rooted in long-standing cultural or historical practices. This can lead to misinterpretations and a diluted understanding of the phrase's true meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "traditional responsibility" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a duty, obligation, or task that is rooted in long-standing customs, beliefs, or practices. Ludwig AI confirms this usage pattern.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

32%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Wiki

12%

Formal & Business

9%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "traditional responsibility" effectively conveys duties or obligations rooted in cultural or historical practices. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically sound and sees common usage across diverse sources. While it is suitable for discussing cultural norms and long-standing expectations, it's crucial to avoid overgeneralization and ensure relevance to the context. Alternatives like "customary duty" or "conventional obligation" may be more appropriate depending on the intended meaning and formality level. Therefore, consider the context carefully to ensure effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

customary duty

Emphasizes the moral or legal imperative based on long-standing practice. It is more formal than "traditional responsibility".

conventional obligation

Highlights the social or cultural expectations that come with a certain role or position. It is slightly more formal.

historical accountability

Focuses on the liability arising from past actions or roles. It brings a more formal, legalistic tone.

established role

Underscores the long-held position and its related functions. It is less about duty and more about function.

long-standing commitment

Stresses dedication over time, but is less specific about the nature of the duty. It's softer and less binding.

time-honored obligation

Emphasizes the respect and value associated with the duty. It adds a tone of reverence.

cultural expectation

Highlights the societal norms that shape the duty. It's less focused on the individual and more on the group.

inherited burden

Suggests that the duty is a weight passed down through generations. It carries a negative connotation.

legacy of duty

Focuses on the lasting impact and significance of the duty. It adds a tone of importance.

accepted practice

Underlines the commonness and normality of the activity, minimizing the sense of obligation.

FAQs

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

You can use "traditional responsibility" to describe duties or obligations that are rooted in cultural or historical practices. For example: "In many cultures, caring for elders is seen as a "traditional responsibility" of the family".

What phrases are similar to "traditional responsibility"?

Similar phrases include "customary duty", "conventional obligation", or "cultural expectation", depending on the context.

What's the difference between "traditional responsibility" and "legal obligation"?

"Traditional responsibility" refers to duties based on custom or culture, while "legal obligation" refers to duties enforced by law. A legal obligation is enforced by government, while a "traditional responsibility" might be enforced by social pressure or custom.

Is it appropriate to use "traditional responsibility" in a business context?

While possible, "traditional responsibility" is less common in business contexts. Terms like "contractual responsibility" or "professional obligation" are typically more suitable, unless the business practice is rooted in long-standing cultural tradition.