Meaning
Following a normal or habitual pattern.
Cultural Background
In Spain, 'como de costumbre' is often linked to the rigid but social schedule of the day, such as the 'aperitivo' before lunch or the 'siesta' hours when shops close. In Mexico, the phrase can be used with a sense of 'resigned humor' regarding the chaotic traffic in CDMX or the legendary hospitality of grandmothers. Argentines might use this when talking about their Sunday 'asado' (barbecue) rituals, which are a sacred weekly 'costumbre'. In Colombia, it's common to hear this in relation to the 'tinto' (small black coffee) breaks that happen throughout the workday.
The Comma Rule
If you start a sentence with 'Como de costumbre', always put a comma after it. It makes your writing look much more professional.
Avoid 'Como Usual'
Even though you might hear it in some dubbed movies, 'como usual' is considered poor Spanish. Stick to 'como de costumbre'.
Meaning
Following a normal or habitual pattern.
The Comma Rule
If you start a sentence with 'Como de costumbre', always put a comma after it. It makes your writing look much more professional.
Avoid 'Como Usual'
Even though you might hear it in some dubbed movies, 'como usual' is considered poor Spanish. Stick to 'como de costumbre'.
Irony Alert
Be careful with your tone. Saying 'Como de costumbre' with a flat voice can sound very sarcastic.
Test Yourself
Fill in the missing words to complete the phrase 'as usual'.
Juan llegó tarde a la oficina, ______ ______ costumbre.
The standard fixed expression is 'como de costumbre'.
Which sentence is the most natural way to say 'It's raining as usual'?
Selecciona la opción más natural:
'Como de costumbre' is the standard natural expression. 'Como usual' is an anglicism.
Complete the dialogue with the appropriate phrase.
Marta: ¿Viene Luis a la fiesta? Pedro: Sí, pero llegará tarde, ______ ______ ______.
In this context of a recurring habit, 'como de costumbre' fits perfectly.
Match the phrase to the most likely situation.
Situation: A student who always forgets their homework.
The phrase is used to highlight the repetition of the negative habit (forgetting).
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
When to use 'Como de costumbre'
Daily Routine
- • Breakfast
- • Commute
- • Gym
Social Habits
- • Being late
- • Family lunch
- • Meeting friends
Practice Bank
4 exercisesJuan llegó tarde a la oficina, ______ ______ costumbre.
The standard fixed expression is 'como de costumbre'.
Selecciona la opción más natural:
'Como de costumbre' is the standard natural expression. 'Como usual' is an anglicism.
Marta: ¿Viene Luis a la fiesta? Pedro: Sí, pero llegará tarde, ______ ______ ______.
In this context of a recurring habit, 'como de costumbre' fits perfectly.
Situation: A student who always forgets their homework.
The phrase is used to highlight the repetition of the negative habit (forgetting).
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsYes, slightly. 'Como siempre' is very common in speech, while 'como de costumbre' is preferred in writing or more deliberate speech.
No, that is incorrect. You can say 'según la costumbre' or 'como de costumbre', but don't mix them.
Mostly, yes. But it can also mean 'tradition' or 'custom' in a cultural sense.
Absolutely! 'Ganamos el partido, como de costumbre' (We won the game, as usual).
Related Phrases
Como siempre
synonymAs always
De costumbre
similarUsual / Customary
Lo de siempre
specialized formThe usual (thing)
Contra toda costumbre
contrastAgainst all custom
