Customary Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
customary
[หkสstษหmษri ]
Definitions
in everyday life
According to the customary practice, guests are expected to take off their shoes before entering the house.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| customary |
When referring to practices or habits that are specific to a culture, community, or group.
|
| traditional |
Applied in situations where something has been done in the same way for a long time, often passed down through generations.
|
| usual |
Refers to something that happens regularly or is the most common way of occurring, more about frequency than culture or history.
|
| normal |
Used for something that is standard or typical in general context, not necessarily tied to traditions or customs.
|
Examples of usage
- It is customary to shake hands when greeting someone in many Western cultures.
- Wearing traditional attire is customary during the festival.
based on custom or tradition
The wedding ceremony followed the customary rituals and traditions of the culture.
Synonyms
conventional, habitual, traditional.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| customary |
This word is best used when referring to practices or norms that are usual or typical in a particular context, often related to social or cultural practices.
|
| traditional |
This word is most appropriate when talking about customs, beliefs, or practices that have been passed down through generations and are closely tied to cultural heritage.
|
| conventional |
This word is typically used when describing practices, methods, or things that are widely accepted or standard. Often implies something that conforms to established practices.
|
| habitual |
This word is best used when referring to behaviors or actions that are done regularly or habitually by a person. It often has a personal or individual focus.
|
Examples of usage
- The exchange of rings is a customary part of many marriage ceremonies.
- It is customary to bow to show respect in some Eastern cultures.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Practices
- In many traditions, customary practices can include rituals like weddings, where specific ceremonies are observed based on cultural heritage.
- What is considered customary can vary widely from one culture to another, such as greeting customs that differ around the world.
Law
- Customary law refers to practices that are accepted as legal or customary in certain communities, often unwritten.
- In some societies, customary laws govern personal relationships and social practices, carrying the same weight as formal laws.
Psychology
- Routines and customary behaviors can significantly shape how we perceive the world, influencing our comfort levels and interactions.
- Psychologists note that when individuals deviate from customary practices, it can lead to feelings of discomfort or social anxiety.
Literature
- Customary motifs often appear in literature, reflecting the societal norms and traditions characterizing the setting of the story.
- Authors might use customary practices to highlight conflicts when characters challenge or adhere to societal expectations.
Origin of 'customary'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Middle English word 'custumarie,' which is linked to 'custom' meaning habits or practices.
- It has roots in the Latin 'consuetudo,' which signifies a habit or custom that people have followed for a long time.
The word 'customary' originated from the Latin word 'consuetudinarius', meaning 'of usage, of custom'. It entered the English language in the late 16th century. Over time, 'customary' has come to represent traditions, practices, and behaviors that are considered normal or expected within a particular culture or society.
See also: accustom, custom, customarily, customer, customizable, customization, customize, customized, customizer, customizing, customs.