Conventionally

/kənˈvɛnʃənəli/

adverbIntermediate📊CommonManner
1 meaning1 idiom/phrase3 questions

Definitions

1

In a way that conforms to established norms, customs, or standards.

/kənˈvɛnʃənəli/

adverbneutralIntermediate
Manner

In a way that follows accepted customs or standards.

She dressed conventionally for the business meeting.

💡 Simply: Doing things the usual or expected way, like how most people do them. For instance, if you usually eat with a fork, you're eating conventionally.

👶 For kids: Doing things the way most people do them.

More Examples

2

The project was approached conventionally, following the standard guidelines.

3

Conventionally, one would shake hands when meeting someone.

How It's Used

General

"The report was formatted conventionally."

Social Sciences

"Social scientists often analyze behaviors that are conventionally viewed as acceptable."

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

Antonyms

Idioms & expressions

conventionally attractive

Considered attractive by the generally accepted standards of beauty.

"She was conventionally attractive, with classic features and a graceful demeanor."

From the word 'convention' (a formal agreement or custom), plus the suffix '-ally' (indicating manner). The word developed to describe things done in accordance with established norms or practices.

The word has been in use since the late 18th century, evolving alongside the growth of social norms and standards.

Memory tip

Think of 'convention' as a gathering with set rules; 'conventionally' means following those rules.

Word Origin

LanguageLatin
Original meaning

"agreement, assembly, convention"

dress conventionallybehave conventionallythink conventionallyconventionally attractive

Common misspellings

conventionlyconventially

Usage

30%Spoken
70%Written