惯例 (guàn lì) is a noun meaning 'convention' or 'established practice' — something widely accepted and routinely followed in a particular group, organization, or society. The character 惯 (guàn) means 'habitual' or 'accustomed to', while 例 (lì) means 'example', 'precedent', or 'case'. Together, they convey the idea of a repeated, accepted pattern of behavior that has become standard over time — not necessarily written into law, but strongly observed nonetheless.

This word is commonly used in formal, professional, or institutional contexts: business meetings, academic settings, government procedures, or social customs. It implies stability and continuity — for instance, a company’s annual review process or a family’s tradition of gathering during Spring Festival may both be called 惯例. Unlike temporary habits (习惯), 惯例 carries weight and legitimacy; it’s less about personal preference and more about collective expectation and shared understanding.