customs - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
customs Word Meanings
- a traditional practice or belief
- a feature made to order
- something unique to an individual
customs Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
customs Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈkʌstəm/
US
/ˈkʌstəm/
customs Word Etymology
custom = costum + -um (Latin) → Old French 'costume' → English. Imagine a tailor crafting a unique outfit tailored to one person, reflecting individual style and tradition.
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 InputEnglish Brain Route
First I hold the fabric in both hands and move the edge along the line of the garment. I push and pull, then adjust the seam until it feels right, a tiny shift of preference on the skin. The moment I sense it fits, a quiet decision settles in, something like a custom that's mine. What I will actually wear or show is born here, in the way I set, keep, or change the fit.
Real Context
Custom has two main meanings in English: a traditional practice or belief that is passed down within a community, and an adjective describing something made to order or tailored to a particular person. The noun sense often collocates with words like tradition, ritual, or culture, so you can talk about local customs or wedding customs. The adjective sense combines with nouns such as made, tailored, or designer to mean personalised. A common learner pitfall is mixing up custom with customs or with customer, or assuming custom always means unusual or strange rather than specifically crafted for one person.
Usage Reminders
- Remember: noun and adjective forms; use with made or tailored for personalization; not the plural customs; separate from customer; not the same as costume; common collocations include local customs and custom-made.
Common Misconceptions
- Custom always means unusual or special
- Custom is the same as customs (traditions)
- Custom is the same as customer
- Custom only refers to clothing
- Custom cannot be used with 'made' or 'tailored'
Thinking Differences
In English, custom covers both tradition and personalization, so learners must spot the noun vs adjective use and avoid conflating with customs or customer.
Learning Tips
- Remember noun and adjective forms
- Use with made, tailored to show personalization
- Differentiate from customs (traditions)
- Differentiate from customer (buyer)
- Avoid confusing with costume
- Practice with local customs vs custom-made phrases
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'customs' mean?
A.Traditions or practices of a particular group
B.The money required for a product
C.A type of fabric used in clothing
D.A branch of mathematics
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following sentences uses the word 'customs' correctly?
A.He had to pack his customs for the trip.
B.She took her customs to the bank.
C.The customs of the festival were very colorful.
D.The customs in this city are boring.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'customs'?
A.Habits
B.Desires
C.Calculations
D.Fabrics
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'customs'?
A.Tradition
B.Innovation
C.Conformity
D.Rituals
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where 'customs' is relevant?
A.Local traditions can enrich community life.
B.She enjoys wearing her new dress to events.
C.Travelers often face long lines at airports.
D.He loves making new friends during his travels.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
🔥 Advanced
Exploring Paleontology: The Art of Fossil Preservation
English Learning Listening Content
Listen NowWant to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App