traditions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "traditions" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to customs, practices, or beliefs that are passed down through generations within a culture or community. Example: "During the holiday season, many families uphold their traditions by gathering for a festive meal and exchanging gifts."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Lifestyle

Politics

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Gavrielatos said the program undermined the secular traditions of state schools, adding the students would be better served by "expert trained school counsellors, psychologists and welfare officers".

The Guardian

This gives them the option not to migrate and ensures that the traditions they're preserving endure".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

In recent weeks the traditions have found a novel field of play – national politics.

The Guardian

Despite all this, some EU members are upholding their traditions of military might, and are prepared to deploy armed forces abroad.

The Guardian

In that context, it is perhaps wisest to view the past week's events as a bit of sport in the finest traditions of a paper that, for more than four decades, has delighted in defying the critics of its daily serving of nipples.

The Guardian

Underpinning the book is a subtext: a love-letter to Latvia, its people, culture and traditions.

The Guardian - Books

On the tour she draws together history, archaeology, politics and society to add context to the culinary traditions of the Italian capital.

The Guardian - Travel

This argument presupposes that "traditions" are worth preserving.

The Guardian - Books

Britain joined late, in 1973, but some English people – perhaps steeped in Britain's maritime, free-trade and imperial traditions – felt wary or hostile towards the EU.

The Guardian

From John Redmond, the leader of the Irish nationalists up to the first world war, to John Hume at the end of the 20th century, northern nationalism has repeatedly accused the Tories of putting party advantage above a balanced settlement between the two traditions on the island of Ireland.

The Guardian

Many non-American Indians have incorporated knowledge of Native American two-spirit traditions into their increasing acceptance of same-sex love, androgyny and transgender diversity.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "traditions" to add depth and meaning to your writing, showcasing the unique character of a culture or community. Make sure that the choice of using it adds nuance and understanding for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "traditions" when describing fleeting or short-lived phenomena. "Traditions" imply long-standing, deeply rooted practices, whereas trends are typically temporary and superficial.

Linguistic Context

The word "traditions" functions primarily as a noun, representing established customs, practices, or beliefs passed down through generations. Ludwig confirms this usage, providing numerous examples where "traditions" serves as the subject or object of a sentence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Lifestyle

14%

Opinion

8%

Less common in

Books

6%

Politics

6%

Music

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "traditions" functions as a noun, denoting established customs or beliefs passed down through generations. As Ludwig AI confirms, the term is grammatically correct and very common in various contexts, especially news and media. While generally neutral in register, it can be formal depending on the source. The examples provided by Ludwig showcase its usage in conveying a sense of cultural identity and continuity. Related phrases such as "customs" or "heritage" can serve as effective alternatives, depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. When using "traditions", be sure to provide adequate context and avoid confusing it with more fleeting trends.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

customs

Refers to established and widely accepted ways of behaving or doing something in a specific society, place, or time.

heritage

Emphasizes the cultural, historical, or ancestral background and legacy passed down through generations.

cultural practices

Highlights the activities, behaviors, and beliefs characteristic of a particular group or society.

social norms

Focuses on the expected and accepted standards of behavior within a community or group.

conventions

Implies established rules, practices, or agreements that are generally accepted and followed.

established rituals

Highlights the symbolic and ceremonial aspects of long-standing practices.

time-honored observances

Emphasizes the long history and respect associated with particular practices.

ancestral ways

Highlights the link to practices passed down from ancestors.

historical precedents

Focuses on past events or actions that serve as a guide or justification for present practices.

institutionalized behavior

Highlights that actions have become formalized and embedded within an organization or society.

FAQs

How to use "traditions" in a sentence?

"Traditions" typically refer to customs or beliefs passed down through generations. For example, "Celebrating Thanksgiving is one of the most cherished "family traditions" in the United States."

What are some alternatives to the word "traditions"?

Depending on the context, you can use words like "customs", "heritage", or "cultural practices" to replace "traditions".

What is the difference between "traditions" and "customs"?

While both terms relate to established practices, "customs" often refer to specific actions or behaviors, whereas "traditions" encompass a broader range of beliefs, values, and practices passed down through generations.

Are "traditions" always positive or beneficial?

Not necessarily. While many "traditions" are valued and celebrated, some may be harmful or outdated. It's important to critically evaluate "traditions" and consider their impact on individuals and society.