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practice

In American English, "practice" is used for both the noun and the verb. In British English, there is a distinction: "practice" is the noun (e.g., 'a medical practice'), while "practise" is the verb (e.g., 'to practise the piano'). When referring to a professional business, like a law or doctor's office, it is always used as a noun.

💬Casual Conversation

🎬Tuesday afternoon, Karen is at the grocery store while David is at his office.
Karen Smith

Leo's skipping soccer practice again. He's totally slacking off.

Karen Smith
David Smith
David Smith

I'll touch base with him later. We need to pivot his mindset.

💡
Karen uses the phrasal verb 'slacking off' to describe Leo's laziness, while David employs corporate jargon like 'touch base' and 'pivot' in a domestic context, highlighting his attempt to sound like a visionary manager at home.

Meanings

noun

The actual application or use of an idea, belief, or method, as opposed to theories about it.

"In practice, the new law is very difficult to enforce."

noun

The professional business of a doctor, lawyer, or other professional person.

"She has been in private practice for over ten years."

verb (transitive)

To perform an activity or exercise regularly in order to improve or maintain one's proficiency.

"You need to practice your scales every day if you want to master the piano."

verb (intransitive)

To repeat a particular action or exercise to become better at it.

"The team spent the afternoon practicing on the field."

Last Updated: May 22, 2026Report an Error