Conventional
UK /["/kənˈvenʃənl/"]/US /["/kənˈvenʃənl/"]/
Definition
tending to follow what is done or considered acceptable by society in general; normal and ordinary, and perhaps not very interesting
In simple words: Normal or traditional; following usual practices.
Examples
- The company follows conventional methods of manufacturing that have been proven over decades.
- She prefers conventional cooking recipes rather than experimenting with new ingredients.
- In a conventional wedding, the bride usually wears a white dress.
- Conventional farming relies heavily on chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
- His ideas were criticized for being too conventional and lacking creativity.
- Using conventional weapons is widely accepted in many countries, but nuclear arms are controversial.
Usage notes
Use 'conventional' for things that are considered usual. It's appropriate in formal writing but can be used in everyday conversation.
Grammar pattern
conventional + noun
Memory hint
Think of 'conventional' as 'conVENtional': things that happen at a VENue, following traditions.
Collocations
- be
- seem
- extremely
- fairly
- very
- be
- seem
- extremely
- fairly
- very
Synonyms
- traditional
- ordinary
- standard
- typical
- customary
Antonyms
- unconventional
- radical
- innovative
Common mistakes
- 'Conventional' is sometimes confused with 'conventionally.'
- Learners may think it means outdated instead of traditional.
- Use with a noun, not as a standalone adjective.