Difference Between Custom and Tradition

Artisans from Oaxaca, Mexico dying palm leaves over an open fire // Photo Credits: C. Penn

Difference Between Custom and Tradition

Custom Tradition’s mission and practice was founded as a result of its name: Custom Tradition. But what does “custom” actually mean, and what does “tradition” mean? Additionally, how are the two different and how are they related?

Read below as we discuss the similarities and differences between Custom and Tradition.

What is the main difference?

For many of us, the words custom and tradition seem interchangeable, and almost as if one stems from the other and vice versa. However, contrary to popular belief, custom and tradition do have a unique difference. The main difference that many people don’t know about custom and tradition is that both words are distinguished by time. According to definition, a custom is an accepted way of behaving/acting in a very specific area, society, place or time. Whereas a tradition has more longevity and is passed on between generations. 

Let’s get into the deep definitions of each word:

What is a Tradition?

A tradition is simply the way one behaves, thinks or acts that has been defined and formed by individuals of a specific community, family, or society for a longer period of time. A tradition can pertain to a religion, a culture or even a specific family. A great example of a tradition is a holiday that is celebrated on a specific day of the year, like Hanukkah. Hanukkah is not new, and has been passed for over a hundred years, thus making it a tradition that has been followed by several generations of families within a specific religion and community. 

What is a Custom?

A custom by definition is a practice that is common to a particular place or group of people. It is a way of behaving that has been accepted by the general society, or within a specific place or time. Customs are very common because every culture, society and religion in our world has one. An example of a custom is a handshake, which is often presented when two people meet for the first time. 

Similar to traditions, customs can start within families, and become customs when they are done repeatedly (for example, a gesture, or a certain type of behavior). However, when a custom withstands the test of time and is passed on from generation to generation, then it becomes a tradition. 

This is the main difference between a Custom and a Tradition. Both are distinct, but one can become the other if enough time passes.