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I'm trying to recall a word I've used before and I'm coming up blank. Here is the context: in computer programming, we often have new languages with multiple ways to accomplish the same end result. After a language is used for a while, people generally start to agree on the most "accepted" or common way of doing something. The term I am looking for describes the common or accepted usage of such a language.

This might be similar to colloquial, but that implies a less formal usage. Canonical might also be similar, but that also implies correct usage, not accepted usage.

To use in a sentence, "I'm familiar with the new language XYZ and all of its new syntax, but I'm interested in in the ___________ usage."

Try as I might, I just can't pick out the word I'm looking for, and Internet searches just come up with the same list of "almost" words.

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    The usual term is standard -- it's not very precise, but then neither is what it names.
    – StoneyB on hiatus
    Dec 29, 2016 at 16:10
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    Pythonic - but that works only for one particular language. Actually, that website mentions idiomatic which might work for you.
    – Glorfindel
    Dec 29, 2016 at 16:15
  • Canonical can also be used.
    – Phil Sweet
    Dec 29, 2016 at 16:23

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I believe idiomatic is the word you're looking for.

  1. ... conforming to the usual manner of expression in a language
    (from Random House Kernerman Webster's College Dictionary via TheFreeDictionary.com)

  2. peculiar to a particular group, individual, or style
    (from m-w.com)

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  • Yes, yes, yes!!! I have been struggling with writers block over that for days.
    – Robert Altman
    Dec 29, 2016 at 16:23
  • @Edwinashworth A much more appropriate definition, thanks. I will edit that in.
    – Hellion
    Dec 29, 2016 at 18:00
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Common and accepted both seem apropos ...

How about established?

OD:

established: Having been in existence for a long time and therefore recognized and generally accepted.

Example: ‘Why this was not an already established practice is a mystery to critics.’

The meaning of "for a ling time" is relative.

Your example:

"I'm familiar with the new language XYZ and all of its new syntax, but I'm interested in the established usage."

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