in a routine
/ɪn ə ruːˈtiːn/phrase★Intermediate— following a regular pattern
informal
following a regular, predictable pattern or sequence
The factory operates in a routine manner to ensure efficiency.
The factory follows a predictable sequence of operations to maintain efficiency.
After years of marriage, their relationship settled into a routine.
After years of marriage, their relationship became predictable and habitual.
💡
Often used to describe habits, procedures, or repetitive actions.
Collocations
fall into a routineto start following a regular patternbreak the routineto disrupt a habitual pattern
Synonyms
Related Phrases
💡Pro Tip
Common Usage
This phrase is often used to describe daily habits or work processes that follow a predictable sequence.
⚡Gold Rule
Avoid Overuse
While useful, overusing this phrase can make descriptions sound monotonous.
📖Word Origin
From 'routine' (mid-19th century), meaning a fixed, unvarying sequence of actions.
📝Usage Notes
Commonly used to describe repetitive behaviors, work processes, or daily habits.
Word Breakdown
in
indicates a state or condition
prepositiona
indefinite article
articleroutine
a fixed, regular pattern
nounEnglish Dictionary