folkways: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Low (C1-C2)Formal / Academic
Quick answer
What does “folkways” mean?
The traditional customs, manners, and behaviours of a particular community or society, considered normal and acceptable within that group.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The traditional customs, manners, and behaviours of a particular community or society, considered normal and acceptable within that group.
The unwritten, socially sanctioned rules and practices that govern everyday life within a culture, often passed down through generations and embodying its values and worldview. In sociology/anthropology, it specifically refers to norms not considered morally crucial (as opposed to 'mores').
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term is used identically in concept. Spelling of related terms may differ (e.g., 'behaviour' vs. 'behavior').
Connotations
Slightly more common in American academic discourse due to the influence of sociologist William G. Sumner (who coined the term). In British English, it may be seen as a technical sociological term.
Frequency
Very low frequency in general usage in both varieties. Almost exclusively found in academic texts, particularly sociology, anthropology, and cultural studies.
Grammar
How to Use “folkways” in a Sentence
The folkways of [PLACE/GROUP]to adhere to the folkwaysfolkways that governfolkways are preservedVocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rarely used. Possibly in cross-cultural business contexts: 'Understanding local folkways is crucial for building trust.'
Academic
Primary context. Used in sociology, anthropology, cultural studies: 'Sumner distinguished between folkways and mores.'
Everyday
Extremely rare. Would sound academic or pretentious.
Technical
Core term in sociology/anthropology, with a specific definition distinguishing it from other types of norms.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “folkways”
- Using it as a singular noun ('a folkway' is technically possible but very rare).
- Confusing it with 'folklore' (which is stories/arts, not behaviours).
- Misspelling as 'folk ways'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is almost always treated as a plural noun (e.g., 'The folkways are varied'). The singular 'folkway' exists but is rarely used outside technical writing.
Folkways are customary, normal behaviours (like table manners or greetings). Mores (pronounced MOR-ayz) are norms seen as central to the group's survival and well-being, carrying a moral weight (like norms against incest or murder). Violating mores brings stronger condemnation.
It is not recommended, as it is a formal, academic term. Using it would likely sound unnatural or pretentious. 'Customs' or 'traditions' are better everyday choices.
The term was introduced and popularized by the American sociologist William Graham Sumner in his 1906 book titled 'Folkways'.
The traditional customs, manners, and behaviours of a particular community or society, considered normal and acceptable within that group.
Folkways is usually formal / academic in register.
Folkways: in British English it is pronounced /ˈfəʊkweɪz/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈfoʊkˌweɪz/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[None directly with 'folkways'. The term itself is a compound noun representing the concept.]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of the FOLK (people) and their WAYS (manners, customs). It's simply the 'ways of the folk'.
Conceptual Metaphor
CULTURE IS A PATH (folkways are the well-trodden paths of behaviour).
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is the BEST example of a 'folkway'?