# traditionally

/tɹəˈdɪʃənəɫi/ (US) · /tɹɐdˈɪʃənəli/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/traditionally
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. according to custom

adverb · CEFR B1

in a way that follows a long-standing custom or habit.

For teachers: in accordance with tradition or long-established custom; often used to introduce a historical norm that may be changing.

- Traditionally, the family gathers for a large meal on the first Sunday of the month.
- Traditionally, the village elders would mediate disputes, though modern legal frameworks have largely superseded this local custom.

Usage: Often placed at the beginning of a sentence to set a historical context.

### 2. historically

adverb · CEFR B2 · Academic

used to say that something has been true for a very long time.

For teachers: indicating a state or belief that has persisted through history or across generations.

- This region has traditionally been a center for trade between the two countries.
- While the species was traditionally thought to be solitary, recent field observations suggest a more complex social hierarchy.

Usage: Commonly used in academic writing to establish a baseline of belief or practice.

## Examples

- Traditionally, people eat turkey on Thanksgiving.
- The festival is traditionally held in the town square, though this year it moved to the park.
- While the ceremony was traditionally performed in silence, modern interpretations often include choral music to engage a wider audience.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.