conventionality

Conventionality refers to the quality of being governed by conventions—shared rules or practices that arise from collective agreement rather than natural necessity. Conventions cover everyday behavior, language, and organizational structures across a society.

Conventions coordinate action, reduce uncertainty, and enable social cooperation. They emerge through repeated interaction and are reinforced by social sanction, institutions, and habit. They vary across cultures and over time and often coexist with formal rules and laws.

In language and semiotics, meaning is often described as conventional: words are linked to concepts because speakers agree on their use, not because of intrinsic connections. This conventionality underpins communication and the social attribution of signs.

Examples include dress codes, queuing practices, polite forms of address, and the standard layout of a keyboard or calendar week. These conventions ease coordination but are subject to change as norms shift.

Critiques note that conventionality can stabilize bias and perpetuate inequalities when norms enforce exclusion or restrict autonomy. Proponents of reform argue for deliberate, participatory change while preserving useful social coordination.

See also: convention, social norm, linguistic convention, etiquette.