traditionalism

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'traditionalism' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe the advocacy of traditional values, beliefs, and practices. For example, "Traditionalism is often seen as a form of conservatism, but there are some subtle differences between the two."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

She lives in a tiny town in rural 1990s South Africa - a hot-bed of traditionalism, racial tension and (in Meg's eyes) ordinariness.

The Guardian

Traditionalism is an aging community's security blanket, most of all in matters of the imminent after-life.

The Guardian

The ugly, undemocratic and illiberal aspects of Japanese traditionalism continue to lurk behind its admirable elements.One reason they can do so is because Japan's nationalists have succeeded completely in one of their original goals: financial independence.

The Economist

Falling popular trust in the Kremlin, worries about capital flight and the economy, and an antagonistic urban middle class have led Mr Putin to resort to nationalism, traditionalism and selective repression.

The Economist

But it is as nothing compared with the wall of conservative traditionalism encountered in Scotland.Apart from the Catholic church, among those offended by the repeal of Section 28 was Brian Souter, a devout member of the conservative evangelical Church of the Nazarene.

The Economist

But what is less clear is whether this most unworldly of pontiffs hopes, or wants, to placate those who object to his intense traditionalism, or whether he is willing, or able, to rally his bureaucracy.Before setting off for the Holy Land, he offered what may have been a glimpse of the view that he has of himself and the burden he has been asked to take up.

The Economist

Referring to the attack on a gay rights rally in Tbilisi on May 17th, which Orthodox priests led, he underlined the need to be critical "towards xenophobic and homophobic views locked up in pseudo traditionalism".

The Economist

The West Cornwall Pasty Company adroitly mixes the appeal of rustic traditionalism with modern tastes.

The Economist

Irna Qureshi, a researcher who lives in a suburb of Bradford, says visitors from Asia are frequently shocked by the town's traditionalism.

The Economist

His offence, though, was not to champion novelty against traditionalism, but vice versa.Ivan Massow, a successful businessman, brought ruin upon his head by writing in a magazine that much conceptual art the school that dominates Britain's trendiest galleries is "pretentious, self-indulgent, craftless tat".

The Economist

So Sir John admires the traditionalism and rigour of Pope Benedict just as he admires the traditionalism and rigour of the equivalent schools of Islam and Judaism.Fine but how far is it really possible for people who disagree about a matter to which they ascribe supreme importance to admire one another's integrity and rigour?

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing "traditionalism", clearly define the specific traditions or values being referenced to avoid ambiguity. For instance, specify whether you are referring to religious, cultural, or political traditionalism.

Common error

Avoid making sweeping statements about "traditionalism" without acknowledging the diversity of traditions and beliefs it encompasses. Different cultures and communities may have vastly different interpretations and practices.

Linguistic Context

Traditionalism primarily functions as a noun, referring to the adherence to traditional beliefs, values, and practices. It can also function as an abstract concept, as seen in Ludwig's examples, such as "the ugly aspects of Japanese traditionalism".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Encyclopedias

39%

News & Media

37%

Science

24%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "traditionalism" is a frequently used noun that describes adherence to traditional beliefs and practices. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely applicable in various contexts. Its prevalence in encyclopedias, news media, and academic texts underscores its importance in discussions of culture, society, and politics. While closely related to "conservatism" and "orthodoxy", "traditionalism" emphasizes the value of established customs, historical legacies and beliefs, highlighting the importance of clearly defining specific traditions to avoid overgeneralizations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

conventionality

Emphasizes adherence to established norms and practices, often lacking the deeper ideological commitment of "traditionalism".

conservatism

Focuses on preserving existing institutions and values, often overlapping with "traditionalism" but also encompassing political and social dimensions.

orthodoxy

Highlights adherence to established doctrines and beliefs, especially in religious contexts, differing from "traditionalism" by its stricter focus on doctrine.

heritage preservation

Stresses the act of maintaining cultural or historical traditions, shifting the focus from ideology to active conservation.

cultural continuity

Highlights the unbroken transmission of cultural elements across generations, emphasizing the ongoing nature of tradition.

historical legacy

Focuses on the impact of past events and practices on the present, differing from "traditionalism" by its emphasis on historical significance.

customary practices

Refers to established routines and behaviors within a community, often lacking the ideological weight of "traditionalism".

time-honored customs

Emphasizes the long-standing nature and respect given to established practices, highlighting their endurance through time.

established norms

Focuses on socially accepted standards of behavior, often lacking the historical depth and ideological underpinnings of "traditionalism".

prevailing beliefs

Highlights the commonly held views and attitudes within a society, differing from "traditionalism" by encompassing a broader range of opinions.

FAQs

How can I use "traditionalism" in a sentence?

You can use "traditionalism" to describe adherence to long-standing customs or beliefs, as in: "The country's strong sense of "traditionalism" has preserved many unique cultural practices."

What is the difference between "traditionalism" and "conservatism"?

"Traditionalism" typically emphasizes the importance of established customs and beliefs, while "conservatism" often focuses on preserving existing institutions and social structures. Although there's overlap, "traditionalism" often has a stronger cultural or historical emphasis.

What are some synonyms for "traditionalism"?

Synonyms for "traditionalism" include "conventionality", "orthodoxy", and "conservatism". The best choice depends on the specific context.

How does "traditionalism" affect social change?

"Traditionalism" can act as both a stabilizing force, preserving valuable cultural practices, and as a barrier to progress if it resists necessary social reforms. The impact depends on which traditions are upheld and how rigidly they are enforced.