Conventional: Definition, Usage & Common Examples

Meaning 1：following the norm (conventional)

conventional 🔊

/kənˈvenʃənl/

adj.

Following what most people normally do, not trying to be different or special.

Conventional kitchen scene illustrating standard layout and typical appliances in use

following the norm 🔊

➕

/ˈfɒləʊɪŋ ðə nɔːm/

adj.

Describes something that is based on or in accordance with what is generally done or believed by most people in a society or group.

📁 Category：Culture & History 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From 'convention' (agreement, custom) + '-al' (adjective suffix). 'Convention' comes from Latin 'convenire' (to come together).

💡 Mnemonic

Think of a CONVENTION where everyone follows the same USUAL rules. CONVENTION-al means usual.

📖 Example

When visiting a new country, it's wise to learn about its conventional greetings to avoid misunderstandings. 🔊 When visiting a new country, it's wise to learn about its traditional and commonly accepted greetings to avoid misunderstandings.

🔗 Collocations

conventional wisdom – the generally accepted belief or opinion about something

conventional medicine – mainstream medical treatment using drugs and surgery, as opposed to alternative therapies

conventional approach – a standard or traditional method of doing something

🔄 Synonyms

traditional (adj.) – following long-established customs or beliefs

standard (adj.) – accepted as normal or usual

orthodox (adj.) – conforming to established doctrine or practices, especially in religion

🚫 Antonyms

unconventional (adj.) – not based on or conforming to what is generally done or believed

radical (adj.) – relating to or affecting the fundamental nature of something; very new and different

innovative (adj.) – featuring new methods; advanced and original

🌱 Derivatives

conventionally (adv.) – in a way that follows the usual practices

conventionality (n.) – the quality of being conventional

conventionalism (n.) – adherence to conventional principles or practices

📖 Cultural Story

The word stems from the Latin 'convention-', meaning 'a meeting or agreement'. Historically, a 'convention' was a formal assembly where rules and standards were established. Over time, 'conventional' came to describe anything aligned with these widely accepted standards or norms.