practice
A1 (extremely high frequency)Neutral to formal. The verb form 'practise/practice' is common in all registers, while the noun is extremely common.
Definition
Meaning
the repeated exercise or performance of an activity to acquire or maintain proficiency; the actual application or use of an idea, belief, or method rather than the theory.
In medicine/law: the professional work or business of a doctor/lawyer. Also: a habitual or customary action; a repeated performance of something to become skilled.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
The primary distinction is between the noun (always 'practice') and the verb. In British English, the verb is spelled 'practise'; in American English, the verb is 'practice'. The core concept revolves around repetition for improvement or the actual execution of a theory.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Spelling: UK distinguishes noun 'practice' from verb 'practise'. US uses 'practice' for both noun and verb. Pronunciation differences are minor.
Connotations
Identical in both varieties for the core meaning. 'Surgery practice' (UK) vs. 'Doctor's practice' (US) shows slight collocational preference.
Frequency
Equally high frequency in both varieties. The spelling distinction is a key learning point.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
practice + noun (practice the piano)practice + V-ing (practice speaking)practice + for + noun (practice for the exam)practice + on + noun (practice on the dummy)put + something + into + practiceVocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Practice makes perfect.”
- “In practice (vs in theory)”
- “Out of practice”
- “Sharp practice (dishonest dealing)”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Refers to standard methods, company procedures, or a firm's professional work (e.g., 'accounting practice', 'best practices').
Academic
Used for applied aspects of a field vs. theory (e.g., 'educational practice', 'research into practice').
Everyday
Referring to doing something repeatedly to improve (e.g., 'football practice', 'practice your lines').
Technical
In professions like law/medicine: 'legal practice', 'general practice', 'dental practice'.
Examples
By Part of Speech
noun
British English
- Daily practice is essential for mastering the cello.
- It's standard practice to lock the doors at night.
- She joined a large medical practice in Manchester.
American English
- Band practice starts at four o'clock.
- In practice, the new policy is difficult to enforce.
- He runs a successful law practice in Chicago.
verb
British English
- You must practise your scales every day.
- The team practised the new formation for hours.
- She practises as a solicitor in London.
American English
- You need to practice your speech aloud.
- Let's practice that tricky chord transition.
- He practices family law in Boston.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- I have football practice on Tuesdays.
- Practice your English with a friend.
- It's good practice to arrive early.
- The idea sounds simple in theory, but in practice it's very complex.
- She put all her training into practice during the competition.
- It is common practice to shake hands when you meet.
- The study examines the gap between educational theory and classroom practice.
- His business practices were called into question by the regulators.
- After months of dedicated practice, her technique showed remarkable improvement.
- The report advocates for the adoption of sustainable farming practices across the industry.
- Critics argue that the company's hiring practices lack transparency and could be discriminatory.
- Her clinical practice is informed by the latest psychoanalytic research.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
To ADVISE (verb) gives you ADVICE (noun). To PRACTISE (UK verb) makes your PRACTICE (noun) perfect. US simplifies: PRACTICE for both.
Conceptual Metaphor
SKILL IS A PATH CREATED BY WALKING (repetition creates the path to mastery). KNOWLEDGE IS A TOOL (practice is using the tool).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Do not confuse with 'практика' meaning 'internship' or 'fieldwork'. The English 'practice' is broader. 'Практиковать' is the verb, but note UK/US spelling.
Common Mistakes
- Using noun 'practice' as a verb in UK English. *'I need to practice my French.' (UK: incorrect, should be 'practise'). Confusing 'practice' (noun) with 'practise' (UK verb). Using 'make practice' instead of 'do/have practice'.
Practice
Quiz
In American English, which sentence uses 'practice' correctly as a verb?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
In the UK: 'practice' is the noun, 'practise' is the verb. In the US: 'practice' is used for both noun and verb.
'Practice' implies repetition to gain skill or proficiency in a specific activity. 'Exercise' is physical activity for health or a task to develop a skill, but without the necessary implication of aiming for mastery.
Yes, this is a common professional use. E.g., 'He has a private medical practice,' or 'She left the firm to start her own law practice.'
It means 'in reality' or 'when actually applied', often contrasting with 'in theory'. E.g., 'The plan seems efficient in theory, but in practice it's chaotic.'
Collections
Part of a collection
Education
A2 · 50 words · School, studying and learning vocabulary.