practice - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
practice Word Meanings
- The act of doing something regularly to improve skill.
- A repeated exercise in a particular activity.
- Training for a profession or skill.
practice Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
practice Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈpræktɪs/
US
/ˈpræktɪs/
practice Word Etymology
The root 'pract-' comes from Latin 'practicus' meaning 'doing', combined with '-ice', a suffix indicating a noun of action; originating from Greek into Latin and then to English. Picture someone diligently practicing their instrument, transforming effort into harmony.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I start by moving my fingers over the strings, pressing down and lifting softly. With each note I adjust my grip, turn my wrist, and listen. The act of practice feels like steady work, a push and pull between focus and ease. Gradually the sound changes and I realize I am building a routine I can take into real performances.
Real Context
Practice refers to repeated, regular actions aimed at improving a skill, and it can describe both the act of training and the specific exercises you do. It covers activities like practicing scales on an instrument, drills in sports, or language drills to build fluency. The noun practice means the overall routine or a session, while the verb form is used in American English; in British English the verb is practises/practise. You can also hear 'practice makes perfect' or 'practice session'. Distinguishing between practice as preparation and performance helps avoid overgeneralizing that a single attempt equals mastery. The word spans casual routines and professional training contexts.
Usage Reminders
- Remember practice is both the act and the session.
- Use practice as a noun for the routine or a session; use practice as a verb in American English, or practise in British English.
- Distinguish practice from performing; you practice to improve, not to perform.
- Common collocations: practice daily, practice session, practice makes perfect.
- Avoid using practice to mean a single attempt equals mastery; plan regular, gradual repetitions.
Common Misconceptions
- Mistaking practice for performance; assuming perfect execution in one session means you are skilled.
- Thinking practice and practise are different words in all cases; only British English treats the verb differently.
- Believing practice must happen in front of others; it can be private and still be effective.
- Confusing practice with a one-off attempt rather than a routine of repeated effort.
- Using practice to mean a medical clinic or professional work setting without context.
Thinking Differences
This concept combines ongoing self-improvement with structured sessions; English often emphasizes both routine and the act of training, so learners should hear and use phrases like practice session and practice makes perfect to describe steady work over time.
Learning Tips
- Set specific, measurable practice goals for each session
- Mix drills with real-context speaking or playing
- Keep a short practice log to track progress
- Use feedback from tutors or peers to adjust drills
- Gradually increase difficulty to avoid burnout
- Review mistakes and focus on repeated weak spots
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'practice'?
A.Reading
B.Resting
C.Continuous training
D.Dancing
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'practice' used correctly?
A.I practiced sleeping
B.I practiced my homework in class
C.I practiced eating at the restaurant
D.I practiced my guitar every day
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is similar to 'practice'?
A.Chaos
B.Routine
C.Abandon
D.Neglect
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'practice'?
A.Forget
B.Practice
C.Neglect
D.Hesitate
Step 5: Mastery
In what situation would someone need to practice regularly in real life?
A.Watching TV
B.Staying in bed all day
C.Learning a new language
D.Ignoring responsibilities
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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