Definition

1. Noun:

   • A regular, fixed way of doing things: A sequence of actions or procedures that are followed regularly, often automatically.
   • A set sequence in a performance or computer program: In entertainment, a short, rehearsed act. In computing, a sequence of instructions for a specific task.

2. Adjective:

   • Ordinary and regular: Describing something that is typical, habitual, and not special or unusual.

Usage Examples

• Noun:

  • My morning routine includes coffee and reading the news.
  • The comedian performed a hilarious stand-up routine.
  • The software engineer debugged a faulty routine in the code.

• Adjective:

  • The investigation was just a routine check.
  • It was a routine day at the office, with no surprises.

Advanced Usage

• "As a matter of routine": Done as a standard procedure, without needing special consideration.

  • Passports are checked as a matter of routine at the border.

• "To break the routine": To do something different from one's usual habits.

  • We went on a trip to break the monotony of our daily routine.

Variants and Related Words

• Routinely (adverb): In a routine manner; regularly.

  • The equipment is routinely inspected for safety.

• Routinize (verb): To make something into a routine; to establish a regular procedure for.

  • The manager sought to routinize the reporting process.

Synonyms

• Procedure (noun): An established or official way of doing something.
• Habit (noun): A regular practice or tendency.
• Ordinary (adjective): With no special or distinctive features; normal.

Related Phrases

• Daily grind: A tedious, monotonous routine (often used negatively).

  • He was tired of the daily grind at the factory.

• Set in one's ways: Having fixed, unchangeable habits or routines.

  • My grandfather is very set in his ways and follows the same routine every day.

Adjective

1. found in the ordinary course of events
   • a placid everyday scene
   • it was a routine day
   • there's nothing quite like a real...train conductor to add color to a quotidian commute- Anita Diamant

Noun

1. a set sequence of steps, part of larger computer program
2. a short theatrical performance that is part of a longer program
   • he did his act three times every evening
   • she had a catchy little routine
   • it was one of the best numbers he ever did
3. an unvarying or habitual method or procedure