# way of life

CEFR B1 · Compound

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/way-of-life
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

the typical habits, customs, and beliefs of a person or a group of people.

For teachers: the typical manner in which a person or group lives, encompassing social customs, daily habits, and cultural values.

## Examples

- Farming is a very hard way of life.
- Moving to a small island changed their entire way of life and made them feel more relaxed.
- The rapid expansion of digital technology has fundamentally altered the traditional way of life for many rural communities across the globe.

## Pitfalls

- Not "the way of the life" but "the way of life" — the phrase is a fixed compound and does not usually take an article before 'life' when speaking generally.

## Usage notes

- often used with adjectives like 'traditional', 'modern', or 'simple' to describe a specific culture or routine.
- Teaching tip: encourage students to use this when discussing culture or sociology; it is more holistic than just 'lifestyle' as it often implies deeper values or traditions.

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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.