Practice what is preached

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Practice what is preached" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to emphasize the importance of following one's own advice or beliefs in practice. Example: "If you want to be a successful leader, remember to practice what is preached and lead by example."

✓ Grammatically correct

Unknown

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Religious faith and political liberty have coexisted in the United States because most Americans have learned the importance of never practicing exactly what is preached to them.

The New York Times

Happiness itself serves as a bridge to help people practice what they preach (or what is preached to them).

Forbes

Well before the current vogue for network-related concepts began to dominate conversations about painting, Donegan was practicing what was about to be preached, treating her work as one interrelated system.

The New Yorker

Mr. Gondry himself does not practice what he is preaching.

The New York Times - Arts

Many of my counterparts are starting to put into practice what she is preaching, and her book is accelerating the movement.

Huffington Post

The failure of the United States to carry out sanctions against many companies and individuals is cited by some European diplomats as a case of Washington not practicing what it is preaching.

The New York Times

Much to our surprise, we were called one day to practice what we were preaching.

The New York Times - Health

Practice what you're preaching to your kids.

Huffington Post

And then I go — I need to practice what I'm preaching.

Los Angeles Times

He has practiced what he was preaching since becoming Governor.

The New York Times

"I have had to come to terms with the fact that I wasn't always practicing what I was preaching," Mr. Watkins said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "Practice what is preached" to call attention to hypocrisy or inconsistency, whether in yourself or others. It's a direct and easily understood way to point out the disconnect between words and actions.

Common error

Don't expect people to automatically adopt your recommendations if you aren't demonstrating them yourself. Leading by example is more impactful than simply giving instructions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Practice what is preached" functions as an imperative, urging the alignment of actions with expressed beliefs or advice. It serves as a call for consistency and authenticity.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "Practice what is preached" emphasizes the importance of consistency between one's words and actions. It serves as a reminder to embody the principles and advice that one advocates. When there are no examples Ludwig's AI still confirms its validity in English. Its function is imperative, urging individuals to demonstrate their beliefs through their behavior to enhance credibility and impact. Several alternatives, like "walk the talk" and "lead by example", offer similar ways to express this vital concept.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Walk the talk

This alternative uses a more concise and informal idiom to convey the same idea of aligning actions with words.

Lead by example

This emphasizes the aspect of influencing others through one's own behavior, which is a common consequence of practicing what you preach.

Be true to your word

This focuses on the promise or commitment aspect, highlighting the importance of fulfilling what you've stated.

Put your money where your mouth is

This idiom suggests backing up claims with tangible actions or investment, especially in situations involving risk or commitment.

Act in accordance with your beliefs

This is a formal way of saying that someone's actions should match their beliefs.

Live up to your principles

This highlights the importance of maintaining ethical standards in daily life.

Be consistent in word and deed

This emphasizes the harmony between verbal communication and physical actions.

Follow your own advice

Focuses on applying the guidance you give to others to yourself.

Adhere to your convictions

This suggests a firm commitment to one's deeply held beliefs, demonstrating consistency through actions.

Do as you say, not as I do

This is the direct opposite, implying hypocrisy, and is included as a contrasting reference.

FAQs

How can I use "Practice what is preached" in a sentence?

You can use "Practice what is preached" to emphasize the importance of aligning actions with words. For example, "If you want to be a successful leader, remember to "practice what is preached" and lead by example."

What does it mean to "Practice what is preached"?

To "Practice what is preached" means that your actions should align with the advice or beliefs you share with others. It emphasizes the importance of consistency and integrity.

What are some alternatives to "Practice what is preached"?

You can use alternatives like "walk the talk", "lead by example", or "be true to your word" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it better to "Practice what is preached" or simply preach?

It is generally considered more effective to "practice what is preached". Actions often speak louder than words, and demonstrating a belief through behavior can be more convincing than simply stating it.