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practiced

In American English, "practiced" is the standard spelling for both the verb and adjective forms. In British English, you will often see "practised" (with an 's') used as the verb or adjective, while "practice" (with a 'c') is reserved as the noun. If you are writing for a UK audience, be mindful of this spelling difference. When used as an adjective, it describes someone who looks natural and confident because they have done something many times, even if they are actually nervous or pretending.

💬Casual Conversation

🎬Late night on a dusty Martian outpost, Tom staring at a photo of rain.
Commander Tom

I've practiced my 'sad face' for the video call. Hope she buys it.

Commander Tom
Xylar
Xylar

Emotional manipulation is a breach of protocol. Pay your docking fine.

💡
Tom uses 'practiced' as an adjective to describe his rehearsed expression, showing his melodramatic nature. Xylar responds with bureaucratic coldness and the phrasal verb 'pay your... fine', treating a personal moment as a regulatory violation.

Meanings

adjective

Expert or proficient at a particular activity through regular exercise or experience.

"She gave a practiced smile to the cameras, hiding her nervousness."

verb (transitive)

To have performed an activity or exercise repeatedly in order to improve or maintain one's proficiency.

"He had practiced the piano piece for hours before the recital."

verb (intransitive)

To have carried out a professional vocation or habit.

"She had practiced law in the city for over twenty years."

Last Updated: May 23, 2026Report an Error