What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
folklore
Example
The folklore of Ireland includes stories of leprechauns and banshees. [folklore: noun]
Example
She studied the folklore of her ancestors to learn more about their history. [folklore: noun]
tradition
Example
It's a tradition in our family to have a big dinner on Thanksgiving. [tradition: noun]
Example
The wedding ceremony included many traditional customs and rituals. [traditional: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Tradition is more commonly used than folklore in everyday language. Tradition is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while folklore is less common and tends to be used in academic or cultural discussions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between folklore and tradition?
While folklore is typically associated with a casual and informal tone, tradition is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts, allowing it to be used in academic, cultural, and social settings.