custom / morals
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custom
A traditional behavior or habit that is usual in a particular community or culture. Often used in the plural phrase 'Sitten und Gebräuche' (customs and traditions).
In diesem Land ist es Sitte, dem Gastgeber ein kleines Geschenk mitzubringen.
In this country, it is customary to bring the host a small gift.
In the singular, 'die Sitte' (the custom) refers to a single tradition. In the plural, 'die Sitten' (customs/morals) can mean either several traditions (meaning 1) or the moral rules of a society (meaning 2).
Es ist eine alte Sitte, zu Neujahr Linsen zu essen.
It is an old custom to eat lentils at New Year.
The word 'Sitte' (custom) is very often used in the fixed expression 'Sitten und Gebräuche' (customs and traditions) to describe the totality of a culture’s traditions.
Im Urlaub lernen wir gerne die Sitten und Gebräuche des Landes kennen.
On vacation, we like to get to know the customs and traditions of the country.
When referring to morality and decency, 'Sitten' (morals/manners) often appears with adjectives like 'gut' (good) or 'schlecht' (bad). The phrase 'gegen die guten Sitten verstoßen' (to violate good morals / standards of decency) is also very common.
Sein unhöfliches Benehmen verstößt gegen die guten Sitten.
His rude behavior violates the standards of good manners.
law
'das Gesetz' and 'die Sitte' can both determine people's behavior. A law is an official rule, usually made by the state. A custom is a traditional habit in a community or culture. It is often not written down, but many people consider it normal or right. Learners may confuse the words because both can say: this is how one should act. The difference is: a law is legally binding, while a custom belongs to culture, tradition, or standards of decency.
In vielen Familien ist es Sitte, nach dem Essen noch zusammen am Tisch zu bleiben.
In many families, it is customary to stay at the table together for a while after eating.
Das Gesetz schützt Arbeitnehmer, wenn sie krank sind.
The law protects employees when they are sick.