accustomed - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
accustomed Word Meanings
- familiar with something through experience
- habituated to something
- in the habit of doing something
accustomed Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
accustomed Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/əˈkʌs.təmd/
US
/əˈkʌs.təmd/
accustomed Word Etymology
ac- + custom = to make something customary; Derived from Latin 'accustum', which influenced Old French before entering English. Picture someone walking into a room and adapting to its atmosphere over time until it feels like home.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Accustomed is an adjective meaning familiar through experience or habit. It is used with to: be accustomed to something or to doing something, signaling a settled familiarity that has grown over time. It can describe people, places, routines, or environments that feel normal because you have adjusted to them. It is different from used to, which talks about past habits that no longer apply, and it is not about customs or traditions as a noun. Learners often confuse it with acquainted or with outdated phrases, and they sometimes omit the preposition to. With practice, be accustomed to becomes a natural part of describing long-term adaptation.
Usage Reminders
- - Be accustomed to + noun or gerund (not 'accustomed to do').
- - Remember the difference from 'used to' (past habit).
- - It describes current familiarity, not a one-time change.
- - You can be accustomed to places, people, or routines.
- - Common examples: be accustomed to the heat, become accustomed to the noise.
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing with be acquainted with (familiar through knowledge, not habit).
- Thinking it means 'custom' or tradition as a noun.
- Using 'accustomed to' with an infinitive (to do) instead of a gerund.
- Assuming it refers to past habits like 'used to'.
- Omitting the to after accustomed when it should be there.
Thinking Differences
English speakers typically separate current familiarity (accustomed) from past habits (used to). Learners often slip and say 'accustomed to do'.
Learning Tips
- Practice be accustomed to + -ing with daily routines
- Compare sentences with used to to see the time difference
- Listen for native speakers using be accustomed to in context
- Create a personal mock dialogue about adapting to a new place
- Use a mix of nouns and gerunds after to
- Check for preposition errors in long explanations
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'accustomed'?
A.Confused
B.Comfortable
C.Excited
D.Anxious
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'accustomed' correctly?
A.I was accustomed to the new environment, so I felt out of place.
B.I was surprised by the change because I was accustomed to it.
C.The unfamiliar situation made me feel accustomed.
D.I never got accustomed to the routine, so I enjoyed it.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'accustomed'?
A.Comfortable
B.Unfamiliar
C.New
D.Strange
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'accustomed'?
A.Habitual
B.Usual
C.Unaccustomed
D.Familiar
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you use the word 'accustomed'?
A.Describing someone who is unfamiliar with a new language.
B.Discussing a situation where someone is confused by their surroundings.
C.Referring to a person who is excited about change.
D.Talking about getting used to a different climate.
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