1
Traditional method
Following a customary approach.
Example
The architect combined conventional materials with an unusual form.
conventional
/kənˈvɛnʃənəl/ · kuhn-VEN-shuh-nuhladjective
Based on established practice, tradition, or general acceptance.
Use conventional when the context supports this precise sense: based on established practice, tradition, or general acceptance.
What conventional Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Generally accepted view
Aligned with prevailing belief.
Example
The discovery challenged the conventional account of settlement.
3
Standard technology
Using familiar rather than experimental methods.
Example
Conventional batteries remain cheaper than the prototype.
Use conventional Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The architect combined conventional materials with an unusual form.
The discovery challenged the conventional account of settlement.
Conventional batteries remain cheaper than the prototype.
Precision Matters
Conventional overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
conventional
vs.Means based on established practice, tradition, or general acceptance.
orthodox
Means conforming to an established or generally accepted theory, belief, or practice.
conventional
vs.Means based on established practice, tradition, or general acceptance.
unconventional
Means not conforming to what is generally done, expected, or believed.
conventional
vs.Means based on established practice, tradition, or general acceptance.
innovative
Means introducing or using new ideas, methods, or materials.
conventional
vs.Means based on established practice, tradition, or general acceptance.
traditional
Means following established customs or practices.
Test conventional in Context
The method is established and generally accepted.
1
Rather than inventing a new procedure, the researchers used a ___ method already standard in dozens of laboratories.