What is customarily? Pronunciation and usage in English

customarily means . Learn how to pronounce and use customarily through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of customarily

customarilyadverb

/ˈkʌstəmərəli//ˌkʌstəˈmerəli/

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "customarily." It's a tricky word! Here's a breakdown, with phonetic transcriptions and tips:

1. Phonetic Transcription (IPA - International Phonetic Alphabet):

ˈkʌstəm.ə.rɪ.li

2. Breakdown & Explanation:

  • ˈkʌstəm: This is the core of the word.
    • kʌ: Pronounced like "cut" but with a slightly shorter 'u' sound. It’s similar to the 'u' in "cup."
    • stəm: Pronounced like “stem.” Think of the "st" sound as a clear “st.”
  • ə: This is a very short, unstressed "uh" sound. It's almost like the "a" in "about" but very brief. It's crucial to not over-emphasize this syllable.
  • rɪ: Pronounced like "ri," as in "right."
  • li: Pronounced like “lee,” as in “lily.”

3. Putting It All Together (Slowly):

  1. kʌ (like “cut”)
  2. stəm (like “stem”)
  3. ə (very short "uh")
  4. rɪ (like "ri")
  5. li (like “lee”)

4. Tips for Correct Pronunciation:

  • Stress: The primary stress is on the first syllable: cus-tom-arily. Don't emphasize the second syllable.
  • "r" sound: Make sure you pronounce the "r" in “rɪ” clearly. Don’t slur it.
  • Short "uh" sound: The "ə" is often the trickiest part. It’s subtle. Don’t make it a long, drawn-out “uh.” It’s just a brief pause between syllables.
  • Flow: Try to say it smoothly, connecting the syllables.

5. Listen to Examples:

  • Google Translate: Type "customarily" into Google Translate and click the speaker icon. This will give you a robotic, but helpful, pronunciation.
  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/%C3%BCustomarily/ This website has recordings of native speakers pronouncing the word.

Resources for IPA:

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Usage and examples with the word customarily in English

Let's break down how to use the word "customarily" in English. It's a somewhat formal and slightly old-fashioned word, but it adds a specific nuance to your writing and speech.

1. Meaning:

"Customarily" means "in the usual way," "according to established custom," or "as is traditionally done." It refers to something that has been done habitually or regularly over a period of time, often passed down through generations or within a particular group. It's about practice rather than a specific rule.

2. How to Use It:

Here’s how you can incorporate "customarily" into sentences:

  • Replacing "usually" or "typically": Often, you can use "customarily" as a more formal substitute for "usually" or "typically," but it’s best used when you want to emphasize the historical or customary aspect.

    • Example: "Guests are customarily seated at a long table." (Better than: "Guests are usually seated at a long table.")
    • Example: "The harvest is customarily gathered in October." (More evocative than: "The harvest is typically gathered in October.")

  • Describing Practices and Traditions: This is where "customarily" really shines.

    • Example: "Customarily, the villagers held a bonfire on the eve of the harvest festival."
    • Example: “The team customarily starts their practice with stretching exercises.”
    • Example: “Customarily, weddings are celebrated with a reception.”

  • Highlighting Established Procedures: When describing a process or how something should be done, especially in formal contexts.

    • Example: “The machine is customarily operated by a trained technician.”
    • Example: “The agreement customarily requires a notarized signature.”

3. Important Considerations:

  • Formality: “Customarily” is a more formal word. It’s generally suitable for writing (especially in legal, historical, or academic contexts) and speech where you want to sound deliberate and precise. Avoid it in casual conversation.

  • Synonyms: Depending on the context, you might consider these alternatives:

    • Traditionally: A very close synonym.
    • Habitually: Emphasizes repetition.
    • Regularly: Focuses on frequency.
    • As is customary: A common phrase to express the idea.
    • According to custom: Another clear option.

  • Overuse: Don’t force “customarily” into every sentence. It sounds stilted if used too often. Choose it when you genuinely want to emphasize the established, habitual nature of something.

4. Examples Demonstrating Usage:

  • "The castle customarily housed the royal family and their court."
  • "Customarily, the volunteers would arrive before dawn to set up for the event."
  • “The contract customarily stipulates a six-month notice period for termination.”
  • "The company customarily ships orders within 24-48 hours."

Resources for Further Exploration:

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Synonyms for the word customarily

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