Translation guide
The English word 'customary' refers to something that is usual, traditional, or expected according to custom or habit. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through various adjectives, nouns, and set phrases that convey habitual practice, social norms, or conventional behavior.
Describing something that is done regularly or as a matter of habit, without strong traditional or ceremonial overtones.
An adjective meaning 'usual' or 'habitual'. It is the most common and natural way to say 'customary' in everyday situations, referring to one's regular habits or routines.
彼はいつもの席に座った。
He sat in his customary seat.
いつものように、彼女は遅れて来た。
As is customary for her, she arrived late.
Means 'habitual' or 'customary' in a more formal sense, emphasizing repeated behavior. Often used in written or explanatory contexts.
彼の習慣的な行動は変わらなかった。
His customary behavior didn't change.
Refers to an established custom or annual event. Often used for regular gatherings, ceremonies, or festivals.
恒例の花火大会が開催された。
The customary fireworks festival was held.
Describing actions or behaviors that are expected based on societal norms, etiquette, or long-standing traditions.
Means 'customary' in the sense of following established conventions or precedents. Suitable for formal or business contexts.
慣例に従って、会議は午前中に開かれた。
In accordance with custom, the meeting was held in the morning.
Means 'traditional'. While broader than 'customary', it is often used when the custom has deep historical roots.
その村では伝統的な祭りが毎年行われる。
In that village, a customary festival is held every year.
A phrase meaning 'as a custom' or 'as is customary', often referring to unwritten social rules or traditional practices.
しきたりとして、新年には親戚が集まる。
As is customary, relatives gather for the New Year.
Describing something that is normal or standard for a particular context, not necessarily tied to long-standing tradition.
Means 'usual' or 'normal'. It is a safe, neutral choice for 'customary' when referring to standard procedures or conditions.
通常の手続きに従ってください。
Please follow the customary procedure.
Means 'general' or 'common'. It can convey 'customary' when referring to widespread practices.
この地域では、それが一般的なやり方だ。
In this region, that's the customary way of doing things.
Use いつもの for personal habits and everyday situations. Use 慣例の for formal, institutional, or procedural customs. いつもの is casual and subjective; 慣例の is objective and often used in business or legal contexts.
いつものコーヒーを注文した。
I ordered my customary coffee.
慣例の手順で進めましょう。
Let's proceed according to customary procedure.
There is no single Japanese word that covers all uses of 'customary'. Translating it directly as 慣習的な or 習慣的な can sound unnatural or overly formal in casual contexts. Choose the expression based on whether you mean personal habit, social norm, or standard practice.
✕ 慣習的な席 (unnatural)
customary seat (literal translation)
○ いつもの席
customary seat (natural)