tradicional
Lemma Details
Translation: traditional; conventional; customary
Part of Speech: adjective
Etymology: Derived from the Latin 'traditionalis', which comes from 'traditio' meaning 'handing over, delivery, surrender'. The root 'trad-' is from 'tradere' ('to hand over, deliver'), a compound of 'trans-' ('across, over') and 'dare' ('to give'). This same Latin root gives English 'tradition', 'traduce', and 'trade'. The concept embodies the idea of customs and beliefs being handed down from generation to generation.
Commonality: 80%
Guessability: 90%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
La cocina tradicional española es muy variada.
Traditional Spanish cuisine is very diverse.
Celebramos la fiesta siguiendo las costumbres tradicionales.
We celebrated the festival following traditional customs.
Prefiero un estilo más tradicional para la decoración.
I prefer a more traditional style for decoration.
Es una familia muy tradicional en sus valores.
It's a very traditional family in its values.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'tradition' in English - they sound almost identical.
- Remember 'tradi-' as in 'trade' - traditions are 'traded' or passed down through generations.
- Picture a 'traditional' ceremony being handed over (traded) from one generation to the next.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking countries, 'tradicional' often carries positive connotations related to cultural heritage, family customs, and national identity. It's frequently used to describe festivals, cuisine, music, and other cultural expressions that have been preserved over generations.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While both mean 'conventional', 'tradicional' specifically refers to customs and practices passed down through generations, whereas 'convencional' refers more broadly to what is generally accepted or standard.
Confused word:
Usamos métodos convencionales de enseñanza en nuestra escuela.
We use conventional teaching methods in our school.
Notes: 'Tradicional' often has stronger cultural and historical connotations than 'convencional'.
Mnemonic: 'Tradicional' relates to 'tradition' (passed down), while 'convencional' relates to 'convention' (agreed upon).
Explanation: 'Tradicional' refers to customs and practices passed down through generations, while 'clásico' often refers to something of enduring quality or style that serves as a standard of excellence.
This word:
Preparó una receta tradicional de su abuela.
She prepared a traditional recipe from her grandmother.
Confused word:
El Quijote es un clásico de la literatura española.
Don Quixote is a classic of Spanish literature.
Notes: Both can describe something old or established, but with different emphases.
Mnemonic: 'Tradicional' is about heritage and customs; 'clásico' is about timeless quality and excellence.