Synonym Chooser

How is the word customary distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of customary are accustomed, habitual, usual, and wonted. While all these words mean "familiar through frequent or regular repetition," customary applies to what accords with the practices, conventions, or usages of an individual or community.

the customary waiting period before the application is approved

How does the word accustomed relate to other synonyms for customary?

Accustomed is less emphatic than wonted or habitual in suggesting fixed habit or invariable custom.

accepted the compliment with her accustomed modesty

When is it sensible to use habitual instead of customary?

In some situations, the words habitual and customary are roughly equivalent. However, habitual suggests a practice settled or established by much repetition.

a habitual morning routine

When might usual be a better fit than customary?

While the synonyms usual and customary are close in meaning, usual stresses the absence of strangeness or unexpectedness.

my usual order for lunch

When is wonted a more appropriate choice than customary?

The meanings of wonted and customary largely overlap; however, wonted stresses habituation but usually applies to what is favored, sought, or purposefully cultivated.

his wonted determination

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of customary The customary therapy approach of prior years is being disrupted and transformed. Lance Eliot, Forbes.com, 19 Sep. 2025 The Trumps were treated to the customary display of pomp and grandeur. Isaac Bickerstaff, Glamour, 18 Sep. 2025 Agbadou has appeared sluggish and careless at the heart of defence, while Andre has lacked his customary composure in midfield. Steve Madeley, New York Times, 15 Sep. 2025 But the customary podium ceremony was canceled because of the unrest. Gabe Whisnant, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for customary
Recent Examples of Synonyms for customary
Adjective
  • In her usual soft-spoken British accent, she was known for balancing the grim realities of the climate crisis with a sincere message of hope for the future.
    Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 1 Oct. 2025
  • Messi, who was denied by the post in the first half but who struggled to make his usual impact, walked off the field and straight to the locker room at the final whistle without stopping for any of the usual handshakes or greetings.
    The Athletic Staff, New York Times, 1 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Hogle Zoo always offers a range of special October events for spooky season, and Snowbird’s annual Oktoberfest features live music, family-friendly activities, traditional Bavarian food, and more than 50 varieties of beer for the grownups.
    Beth Luberecki, USA Today, 4 Oct. 2025
  • According to the Federal Trade Commission, Bitcoin ATMs are machines that look like a traditional ATM and are often found at convenience stores, gas stations and other high-traffic areas.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 4 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • For drivers prioritizing affordability and conventional utility, models like the Ford F-150, Ram 1500, and Chevrolet Silverado 1500 may be more suitable.
    Charles Singh, Nashville Tennessean, 3 Oct. 2025
  • Unlike conventional models that primarily rely on current atmospheric readings, Google’s AI system analyzes historical hurricane data to uncover patterns that might elude human forecasters.
    Beatrice Nolan, Fortune, 3 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Dissent is nothing more than the expression of an opinion that varies from the prevailing or traditional view or the position held by those in power.
    Elizabeth Shackelford, Twin Cities, 26 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • All tuitions listed reflect the most current tuition information for full-time students on each school's website or information sent directly to The Tennessean by the schools.
    Rachel Wegner, Nashville Tennessean, 3 Oct. 2025
  • Finally, there’s Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi, whose current role is pivotal as top government spokesperson.
    Jessie Yeung, CNN Money, 3 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Customary.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/customary. Accessed 8 Oct. 2025.

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