What is tradition? Pronunciation and usage in English

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

Definition & pronunciation of tradition

traditionnoun

/trəˈdɪʃn/
Definition & pronunciation of tradition

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "tradition" in English. It can be tricky for some learners! Here's a breakdown:

1. Syllables:

The word "tradition" is broken down into three syllables:

  • Trad - like the beginning of "trade"
  • i - a short, unstressed "i" sound (like in "it")
  • tion - like "shun"

2. Phonetics (a more precise guide):

  • /trəˈdɪʃən/ (This is using the International Phonetic Alphabet - IPA - which is a standardized way to represent sounds)

Let's break that down syllable by syllable:

  • trə: Starts with a "tr" sound (as in "tree"), followed by a very short, almost swallowed "uh" sound (like the "a" in "about"). This is often the most challenging part.
  • ˈdɪ: This is a stressed syllable. The "d" is pronounced as you'd expect, and the "i" is pronounced like the "i" in "bit." It's emphasized.
  • ʃən: This is the final syllable. “ʃ” represents the “sh” sound (as in "ship"). “ən” is a very short, unstressed “un” sound.

3. Audio Examples:

The best way to learn is to hear it! Here are some resources:

Tips for Pronunciation:

  • The "trə" sound: Focus on making the "uh" sound very short and almost barely audible. It's a subtle sound that's often missed by learners.
  • Stress: Make sure you emphasize the second syllable ("dɪ").
  • Don't over-articulate: It’s a relatively smooth sound; avoid making it overly complicated.

To help me give you even more specific advice, could you tell me:

  • What is your native language? (This helps me anticipate potential pronunciation challenges.)

Usage and examples with the word tradition in English

Let's break down how to use the word "tradition" effectively in English. It's a rich word with a lot of nuances.

1. Basic Definition:

At its core, "tradition" refers to customs, beliefs, or practices passed down within a group or society from generation to generation. It’s about things that are done in a certain way because they've always been done that way.

2. Different Ways to Use It:

Here's how you can use "tradition" in various contexts, with examples:

  • As a noun (most common):

    • “Our family has a strong tradition of celebrating Christmas with a special meal.” (Refers to a specific custom)
    • “The region has a rich tradition of folk music.” (Refers to a broader collection of customs)
    • “He’s passionate about preserving the traditions of his Native American heritage.” (Refers to cultural practices)
    • “The company has a tradition of giving employees bonuses at the end of the year.” (Refers to a workplace practice)

  • As a verb (less common, but valid): Meaning to pass something down or maintain a tradition.

    • “The elders of the village are working to preserve their traditions.” (They are actively maintaining them)
    • “She’s determined to keep the family tradition of baking apple pie every Thanksgiving.” (She's continuing the action of baking the pie)

3. Nuances & Related Words:

  • Cultural Tradition: Specifically refers to traditions within a culture or community. "Ancient traditions" or "religious traditions" are common usages.
  • Custom: Similar to tradition, but often implies a smaller or more localized practice. ("Good manners are a common custom.")
  • Heritage: Related to tradition, emphasizing the origins and history of customs. ("He felt a deep connection to his family heritage.")
  • Ancestral traditions: Traditions passed down through family lines.
  • Established tradition: A tradition that's been around for a long time and is well-known.

4. Positive & Negative Connotations:

  • Generally Positive: Tradition is often viewed positively – representing stability, identity, connection to the past, and continuity.
  • Potential for Negative Connotations: However, “tradition” can sometimes be used to justify practices that are outdated, unfair, or harmful. It can be used to resist change. It's important to consider why a tradition exists.

5. Examples in Sentences Showing Different Shades of Meaning:

  • Positive: “The annual town fair is a beloved tradition that brings the community together.”
  • Neutral: “Following the tradition, the bride wore a white dress.”
  • Potentially Critical (depending on context): “Despite the outdated practices of the tradition, the village continued to rely on it.” (This highlights a potentially problematic aspect of the tradition.)

6. Tips for Using It Well:

  • Be Specific: Instead of saying "They have a tradition," try to describe what the tradition is.
  • Consider the Context: Think about whether you want to emphasize the positive, neutral, or potentially critical aspects of the tradition.
  • Use it thoughtfully: "Tradition" is a powerful word. Consider whether it's truly the best word to convey your meaning. Sometimes “custom” or “practice” might be more appropriate.

To help me tailor my response even further, could you tell me:

  • What are you hoping to use the word “tradition” in? (e.g., an essay, a conversation, a piece of writing?)
  • Do you have a specific example sentence in mind that you're struggling with?

Synonyms for the word tradition

Practice with vocabulary tradition

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. It is a long-standing __________ for graduates to wear academic regalia during the commencement ceremony.
  2. The firm has a strong __________ of promoting from within, ensuring institutional knowledge is retained and valued.
  3. During their morning scrum, it is the daily __________ for team members to provide a brief update on their progress.
  4. The preservation of classical music forms is vital for safeguarding our nation's artistic __________.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. The university's founding principles are rooted in a long-standing __________ of academic excellence and intellectual freedom. a) habit b) tradition c) routine d) trend

  2. The annual holiday gala is a cherished __________ among employees, fostering team spirit and camaraderie. a) custom b) ritual c) tradition d) protocol

  3. Breaking with __________ in scientific research often leads to groundbreaking discoveries, but requires strong empirical evidence. a) convention b) tradition c) dogma d) methodology

  4. Before the official signing, all parties must strictly adhere to the established __________ for document review and approval. a) habit b) custom c) protocol d) ritual

  5. She has a rather distracting __________ of checking her phone every few minutes during meetings. a) routine b) habit c) convention d) custom

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The company has always held an annual retreat for all employees, which helps build team cohesion.

    • Rewrite, starting with: It is a company...

  2. Many cultures pass down stories and legends from one generation to the next, preserving their history.

    • Rewrite, using a related form of "tradition".

  3. Her daily schedule includes an hour of meditation before starting work.

    • Rewrite, replacing "schedule" with a suitable alternative word.

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. tradition
  2. tradition
  3. practice
  4. heritage

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. b) tradition
  2. a) custom, c) tradition
  3. a) convention, b) tradition
  4. c) protocol
  5. b) habit

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. It is a company tradition to hold an annual retreat for all employees, which helps build team cohesion.
  2. The passing down of stories and legends is a traditional way for many cultures to preserve their history.
  3. Her daily practice includes an hour of meditation before starting work.

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