While both "traditional" and "customary" describe things that are done in a long-established way, there's a subtle difference. "Traditional" refers to things that are passed down through generations, often associated with a particular culture or group. "Customary" refers to things that are commonly done or practiced by a particular group of people, often in a specific context. Think of tradition as a long-standing practice, while custom is a more habitual behavior.

Here are some example sentences to illustrate the difference:

• Traditional: "The wedding followed traditional customs, with the bride wearing a white dress and the groom giving a speech." (Meaning: The wedding followed long-established practices typical of that culture.) Translation: The wedding ceremony followed typical wedding traditions, where the bride wears a white dress and the groom gives a speech.
• Customary: "It's customary to tip waiters in restaurants." (Meaning: It's a common practice to tip waiters, but not necessarily a long-standing tradition.) Translation: It is a common practice to tip restaurant waiters.
• Traditional: "Many traditional healers use herbs and natural remedies." (Meaning: This is a long-established practice related to traditional medicine and culture.) Translation: Healers who have practiced for generations typically use herbs and natural remedies.
• Customary: "It's customary to remove your shoes before entering a Japanese home." (Meaning: This is a common practice observed by people in Japan, though maybe not considered a deeply rooted tradition.) Translation: Taking your shoes off before entering a Japanese home is a common social practice.

Notice how "traditional" often implies a sense of history and cultural significance, while "customary" suggests a more widespread and habitual practice within a specific setting. The difference is subtle, but understanding it helps to improve your precision in English.

Happy learning!