Difference between custom and tradition


Culture / History
2023-05-21T22:35:05+00:00

Difference between custom and tradition

What is custom?

Custom refers to the usual practices that people have in a specific place or community. These practices may vary depending on region, culture or religion.

Customs can be adopted by a community voluntarily and for no particular reason, or they can be established by social or religious norms. For example, the customs of celebrating a specific day to honor the deceased or eating a certain dish on a particular date.

Examples of customs

  • Eat potatoes at all meals
  • Greet with a kiss on the cheek
  • Celebrate churches based on religious holidays

What is tradition?

Tradition refers to practices passed down from generation to generation. Tradition can be cultural, religious or social. Unlike customs, traditions generally have a deeper meaning.

A tradition can be a custom that has been passed down through the years and can be associated with some important historical event. For example, the tradition of meeting for dinner during Christmas or exchanging gifts on a specific date.

Examples of traditions

  • The day of the dead in Mexico
  • The celebration of eastern .
  • Christmas gift giving around the world

Differences between custom and tradition

Both words are used to refer to social practices that are carried out regularly, but there are some differences between them:

  • Customs are customary practices while traditions are practices that are passed down from generation to generation.
  • Customs may vary depending on region, culture or religion while traditions tend to be universally recognized.
  • Traditions generally have a deeper and more emotional meaning than customs.

In summary, although the terms custom and tradition are often used interchangeably, there is a clear difference between them. Customs are customary practices that can vary by region and religion, while traditions refer to practices that are passed down from generation to generation and often have a deeper meaning.

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