What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
habit
Example
I have a habit of biting my nails when I'm nervous. [habit: noun]
Example
She habitually wakes up at 6 am every morning. [habitually: adverb]
tradition
Example
It's a tradition in our family to have a big dinner on Thanksgiving. [tradition: noun]
Example
The festival is a tradition that dates back hundreds of years. [tradition: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Habit is more commonly used than tradition in everyday language, as it refers to personal behaviors and routines that are familiar to most people. Tradition is less common and is often used in the context of cultural or religious practices.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between habit and tradition?
Both habit and tradition can be used in formal and informal contexts, but tradition may be more commonly used in formal settings, such as academic or cultural discussions.
