experience
/ɪkˈspɪə.ɹɪəns/
The word bridges the gap between a passive event and an active accumulation of knowledge. When used as a noun for skill, it implies a seasoned quality—a "weathered" expertise that cannot be learned from books alone. As a singular event, it emphasizes the subjective impact on the individual. It is not just something that happened, but how it felt or what it meant to the person involved. As a verb, it is more formal than "feel" or "go through." It suggests an encounter with a state of being or a situation, often used in medical, psychological, or professional contexts to describe symptoms or reactions.
Countable when referring to a specific event that happened to you ('That bungee jump was a terrifying experience'). Uncountable when referring to the cumulative knowledge and skill gained over time ('This job requires previous experience in sales').
💬Casual Conversation
Your essay is too dry. You need to actually describe the experience.
I'm just trying not to sound like I'm bragging.
Meanings
Practical contact with and observation of facts or events.
"She has ten years of experience in software engineering."
An event or occurrence which leaves an impression on someone.
"Traveling through Asia was a life-changing experience."
Collocations & Compounds
hands-on experience
Knowledge or skill gained by actually doing something rather than reading about it.
user experience
The overall experience of a person using a product, especially a website or application.
lack of experience
A deficiency in practical contact with and observation of facts or events.
life-changing experience
An event or occurrence that significantly alters a person's life or perspective.
previous experience
Past practical contact with and observation of facts, often used in job requirements.
Idioms & Sayings
learning experience
An event from which one gains knowledge or wisdom, often through a mistake.
experience is the best teacher
The idea that practical involvement is more effective than theoretical study.
lack of experience
A deficiency in the practical knowledge or skills gained from doing something.