in practice — used to say what actually happens as opposed to what is supposed to or expected to happen
Part of speech: ADVERB
Definition: used to say what actually happens as opposed to what is supposed to or expected to happen
Pronunciation (IPA): /ɪn ˈpræktɪs/
Example Sentences
- In theory, robots should never make mistakes, but in practice, my robot vacuum keeps eating my socks.
- The new policy looks good on paper, but in practice, it created more problems for small businesses.
- In practice, most students spend more time on their phones than on their textbooks.
in practice
ADVERB[/ɪn ˈpræktɪs/]
used to say what actually happens as opposed to what is supposed to or expected to happen

The rule sounds fair, but in practice, small shops can't afford it.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The phrase 'in practice' combines the preposition 'in' with 'practice', which derives from Greek 'praktikos' (practical, relating to action) through Latin 'practicus'. The expression evolved to denote actual implementation or real-world application, as opposed to theoretical understanding.
Breakdown
in (preposition: within, inside) + practice (from Greek praktikos: action, practical application). The compound phrase means 'in actual execution' or 'when actually applied', contrasting with theory or ideal conditions.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“In theory, robots should never make mistakes, but in practice, my robot vacuum keeps eating my socks.”
“The new policy looks good on paper, but in practice, it created more problems for small businesses.”
“In practice, most students spend more time on their phones than on their textbooks.”
“The diet plan promised quick results, but in practice, I just got hungrier and grumpier.”
📚Related Words
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