habitual

/hə'bitjuəl/

Friendly

Word: Habitual

Part of Speech: Adjective

Definition: The word "habitual" describes something that is done regularly or often, as a normal part of someone's behavior or routine. It refers to actions or behaviors that are typical for a person or a group.

Usage Instructions:

• You can use "habitual" to describe someone's regular actions or behaviors. It often suggests that these actions are so common that they seem automatic or natural.
• It can be used in both positive and negative contexts. For example, someone might have a "habitual" exercise routine, or they might have "habitual" bad habits.

Example Sentences:

1. She is a habitual runner; she jogs every morning without fail.
2. His habitual lateness to meetings annoyed his co-workers.
3. The dog displayed habitual behavior by waiting by the door every evening when its owner came home.

Advanced Usage:

In more complex sentences, "habitual" can be paired with other words to describe specific behaviors: - "His habitual procrastination often led to a last-minute rush to complete his assignments." - "The habitual practice of meditation has improved her focus and wellbeing."

Word Variants:

• Habit (noun): A practice or routine that is done regularly.
• Habituation (noun): The process of becoming accustomed to a particular situation or environment.
• Habitually (adverb): In a way that is done regularly or repeatedly.

Different Meanings:

• In psychology, "habitual" can also refer to behaviors that are automatic responses to certain stimuli, such as habitual smoking or eating.

Synonyms:

• Usual
• Regular
• Customary
• Repeated
• Routine

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

While there aren't specific idioms directly related to "habitual," you can use phrases that imply regular action: - "Set in stone": Meaning something that is established and unlikely to change, similar to a habitual action (e.g., "His morning routine is set in stone; he never skips his coffee before work.") - "Fall into a routine": To start doing things in a regular way (e.g., "After the holidays, I fell back into my habitual routine of waking up early.")

Summary:

"Habitual" is a useful word to describe regular behaviors that are part of someone's lifestyle.

Academic

Adjective

1. commonly used or practiced; usual
   • his accustomed thoroughness
   • took his customary morning walk
   • his habitual comment
   • with her wonted candor

Synonyms

• accustomed
• customary
• wonted