Tavanlaillinen

Tavanlaillinen is a Finnish adjective that describes something as conventional, customary, or typical because it follows established practices. The word is formed from tavan- meaning custom or habit and laillinen, but in this compound its meaning is tied to conformity with customary norms rather than legal authority. In modern Finnish, tavanlaillinen is relatively uncommon in everyday speech; more common synonyms are tavanomainen, tavanmukainen, or normaalinen.

Usage of tavanlaillinen is typically found in formal or historical writing, where authors discuss practices that are recognized as standard within a community, organization, or traditional context. The term can carry a sense of authority conveyed by convention, especially when comparing observed practices with what is regarded as the established way of doing things. Typical collocations include tavanlaillinen käytäntö, tavanlaillinen menettely, and tavanlaillinen ratkaisu, all referring to actions or decisions that adhere to customary norms.

Etymology notes: the combination of tavan- and laillinen in this sense does not imply legality in the modern everyday use of Finnish; instead, the emphasis is on customary legitimacy and adherence to established practice. Because of its rarity, speakers who want to express conformity to customary practice often choose tavanomainen or tavanmukainen for broader clarity.

See also: tavallinen, tavanomainen, tavanmukainen, normi, käytäntö.