obyczajowy

Obyczajowy is a Polish adjective derived from obyczaj, meaning custom or mores. It denotes something relating to customs, manners, or social norms, especially as they pertain to everyday life and human interaction. The term is widely used in cultural, literary, and social contexts to describe aspects connected with ordinary conduct and interpersonal relations rather than with politics, adventure, or fantasy.

In literature and film, obyczajowy describes genres and works that focus on everyday life, personal relationships, family, love, social status, and moral choices. Common phrases include drama obyczajowy (drama about everyday life) and komedia obyczajowa (comedy of manners). These works tend to emphasize realistic characterization, social constraints, and the nuances of daily routines, often set in familiar environments such as households, workplaces, or small towns. The emphasis is on authenticity and the exploration of how people navigate norms and expectations.

Etymologically, obyczajowy is formed from obyczaj (custom, habit, manners) with the suffix -owy, indicating belonging or relation. The term carries a neutral to descriptive connotation, suitable for academic, critical, or journalistic usage when classifying content by its focus on ordinary life and social mores rather than sensational or extraordinary events.

See also: obyczaje (customs, mores), drama obyczajowa, komedia obyczajowa.