practice

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "practice" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it as either a verb or a noun. For example, "I practice yoga every day to stay healthy and fit."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The book, Cameron: Practically a Conservative, describes how on a weekend Cameron may practice his game with a tennis machine he calls "the Clegger", after the deputy prime minister.

The Guardian

Two were given a gel containing PRO 2000 (in different concentrations for each group), along with advice about how to use it, a regular supply of condoms and counselling on safe sexual practice and sexual health.

The Economist

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The Guardian

As well as a keynote speech from the government's adviser on big society, Lord Wei, delegates will also hear first hand accounts of how other local government managers are implementing big society in their councils and the best practice they have developed.

The Guardian

"Best practice from the independence referendum must be followed – and that includes extending the vote in an EU referendum to 16- and 17-year-olds across the UK.

The Guardian

This conference brings together best practice examples, policy leaders and industry experts to discuss the challenges facing social care providers and IT support teams.

The Guardian

But, in practice, it is hard to feel that my decision-making powers have been weakened because when I got my driver's license enrolling in organ donation was the default option.

The New York Times

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The Guardian

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The Guardian

"It should not and will not be the practice of the Australian government to describe areas of negotiation in such judgmental language".

The Guardian

It does not accord with our long established practice with which those who practice in this area of the law are familiar.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "practice" to refer to both the act of rehearsing a skill and the profession someone is engaged in. For instance, a musician practices their instrument, and a doctor has a medical practice.

Common error

Remember that "practice" is a noun in American English, while "practise" is a verb in British English. In American English, the verb form is also "practice". Example: 'I need to practice more' (verb) vs. 'This requires more practice' (noun).

Linguistic Context

The word "practice" functions primarily as both a noun, referring to the act of rehearsing or a customary action, and as a verb, meaning to perform an activity repeatedly to improve. As Ludwig AI confirms, the word "practice" is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "practice" is a versatile term used both as a noun and a verb, denoting repetition for improvement, a profession, or a custom. Ludwig AI confirms that it's grammatically sound and widely applicable. Its neutral register makes it suitable for various contexts, from news reporting to scientific papers. Remember to distinguish between the noun and verb forms and consider context to choose the most appropriate usage. Alternatives like "repetition", "exercise", and "training" can offer nuanced meanings. By following these guidelines, you can confidently and correctly use "practice" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

repetition

Focuses specifically on the act of repeating an action to improve skill.

exercise

Highlights the active engagement in an activity for improvement or maintenance.

training

Emphasizes a structured approach to learning or skill development.

application

Stresses the practical use or implementation of knowledge or skills.

habit

Indicates a customary or routine way of behaving.

routine

Similar to habit, but often refers to a more structured sequence of actions.

custom

Implies a widely accepted or traditional way of doing something.

method

Refers to a specific way of doing something, often implying a systematic approach.

procedure

Indicates a set of formal steps taken to accomplish a task.

implementation

Highlights the act of putting a plan or system into effect.

FAQs

How can I use "practice" in a sentence?

"Practice" can be used as both a noun and a verb. As a noun: "Regular practice is essential for improvement." As a verb: "I practice the guitar every day."

What words can I use instead of "practice" to mean rehearsal?

Alternatives to "practice" when referring to rehearsal include "rehearsal", "drill", or "workout", depending on the context.

How does the meaning of "practice" change depending on the context?

"Practice" can refer to repetitive training, a profession (like a medical practice), or a customary action. Understanding the context is key to interpreting its intended meaning.

What's the difference between "practice" and "theory"?

"Practice" refers to the actual application or doing of something, while "theory" is a set of ideas or principles that explain something. "Practice" is about doing, "theory" is about thinking and explaining.