Tradition: Definition, Usage & Key Examples

Meaning 1：long-standing custom (tradition)

tradition 🔊

/trəˈdɪʃ(ə)n/

It's a belief, custom, or way of doing things that has been passed down from one generation to another for a long time.

Tradition illustrated by a multi-generational family sharing a traditional festive meal, passing dishes and customs.

long-standing custom 🔊

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/lɒŋ ˈstændɪŋ ˈkʌstəm/

A belief, practice, or way of doing things that is passed down through generations within a society, family, or group.

📁 Category：Culture & History 🔖 Level：初级

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Latin 'traditio' (handing over, delivery), combining 'trans-' (across) + 'dare' (to give).

💡 Mnemonic

Think: Transmission of traditions across generations.

📖 Example

In my family, we have a tradition of telling stories around the campfire during summer vacations. 🔊 In my family, we have a long-standing custom of telling stories around the campfire during summer vacations.

🔗 Collocations

family tradition – A custom specific to and preserved by a family unit.

break with tradition – To do something in a new way that differs from established custom.

oral tradition – Cultural material and tradition transmitted orally from one generation to another.

🔄 Synonyms

custom (n.) – A traditional and widely accepted way of behaving or doing something specific to a society, place, or time.

convention (n.) – A way in which something is usually done, especially within a particular area or activity.

heritage (n.) – Valued objects and qualities, such as cultural traditions and historic buildings, that have been passed down from previous generations.

🚫 Antonyms

innovation (n.) – A new method, idea, or product; the opposite of sticking to established ways.

novelty (n.) – The quality of being new, original, or unusual; something new and different.

🌱 Derivatives

traditional (adj.) – Existing in or as part of a tradition; long-established.

traditionally (adv.) – According to tradition; in a traditional manner.

traditionalist (n.) – A person who supports or follows long-established customs and beliefs.

📖 Cultural Story

The word 'tradition' originates from the Latin 'traditio', used in Roman law to mean the formal handing over of property. It evolved to signify the passing down of knowledge, beliefs, and customs across generations, central to cultural identity.