Inklingo

How to Say "tradition" in Spanish

English → Spanish

costumbre

cohs-TOOM-breh/kosˈtum.bɾe/

nounB1social or cultural practice
Use 'costumbre' when referring to a regular social or cultural practice, habit, or way of doing things that is common within a group or community.
A colorful storybook illustration showing an older woman and a young child sitting at a table, jointly decorating a large, intricately shaped cultural pastry.

Examples

Es una costumbre muy antigua en este pueblo.

It is a very old tradition in this town.

Las costumbres sociales varían mucho entre países.

Social conventions vary greatly between countries.

Como de costumbre, la oficina estaba cerrada a esa hora.

As usual, the office was closed at that time.

Plural Usage

When talking about general societal rules or manners, you often use the plural: 'las costumbres' (the customs/manners).

tradición

nounB1A long-held custom or belief
Choose 'tradición' for a long-held custom, belief, or practice passed down through generations, often with historical or cultural significance.

Examples

La celebración del Día de Muertos es una tradición mexicana ancestral.

The celebration of the Day of the Dead is an ancient Mexican tradition.

institución

nounB2a long-standing social practice
Use 'institución' to describe a practice, organization, or system that has been established and accepted for a long time, often with a formal or societal impact.

Examples

La libertad de prensa es una institución fundamental en la democracia.

Freedom of the press is a fundamental institution in democracy.

Costumbre vs. Tradición

Learners often overuse 'tradición' for everyday habits. Remember that 'costumbre' is best for routine practices or social norms, while 'tradición' implies something older, more deeply rooted, and often passed down through generations.

Related Translations

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