conventionality

[ kuhn-ven-shuh-nal-i-tee ]

noun

, plural con·ven·tion·al·i·ties

1. conventional quality or character.
2. adherence to convention.
3. a conventional practice, principle, form, etc.
4. conventionalities, conventional rules of behavior.

conventionality

/ kənˌvɛnʃəˈnælɪtɪ /

noun

1. the quality or characteristic of being conventional, esp in behaviour, thinking, etc
2. often plural something conventional, esp a normal or accepted rule of behaviour; propriety

Other Words From

• semi·con·vention·ali·ty noun plural semiconventionalities

Word History and Origins

Origin of conventionality¹

First recorded in 1825–35; conventional + -ity

Example Sentences

Altemeyer has emphasized that the right-wing authoritarian harbors a peculiar mix of traits: aggression, submissiveness and conventionality.

From Salon

The last thing her fans might have expected from a Britney Spears musical is dutiful conventionality.

From New York Times

Or maybe it has more to do with Lana’s use of convention to smash conventionality.

From Washington Post

Perhaps I had too rashly over-leaped conventionalities; and he, like St. John, saw impropriety in my inconsiderateness.

From Literature

These narrative distractions are an obvious relief for the audience, even as they represent a retreat into conventionality and a failure of nerve on the part of the filmmakers.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• civility
• correctness
• courtesy
• decorum
• dignity
• good manners
• honesty
• modesty
• propriety
• righteousness
• virtue