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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.
💡 Concept

The rule sounds fair, but in practice, small shops can't afford it.

Got the picture? Now let's practice.

🎤Pronunciation

🇺🇸 US/ɪn ˈpræktɪs/
🇬🇧 UK/ɪn ˈpræktɪs/

🌳Etymology

Rootpractic-
Suffix--ice

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

actress
mattress
practice

🔗Collocations

in practice, not in theory
work well in practice
put a plan into practice
differ in practice
in practice, this means
in practice, it is difficult

📝Examples

😄 Fun example

“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.”

😄 Fun example

“In practice, most students spend more time on their phones than on their textbooks.”

😄 Fun example

“The diet plan promised quick results, but in practice, I just got hungrier and grumpier.”

📚Related Words

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