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Novice Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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novice

[ˈnɒvɪs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

a person

A person who is new to a skill, subject, or activity.

Synonyms

amateur, beginner, learner.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
novice

This word is used to describe someone who is new to a particular activity or field, with little to no previous experience. It can be used in a variety of settings, such as hobbies, professions, or other skills.

  • As a novice in cooking, she often followed recipes to the letter
  • He was a novice at skiing and needed to take lessons before hitting the slopes
beginner

Typically used to describe someone at the initial stage of learning something. It suggests that the person is just starting out and still needs to gain basic skills.

  • The beginner guitar class was full of students who had never played a musical instrument before
  • As a beginner in chess, she read many books and watched tutorials to improve her game
learner

This word emphasizes the process of learning rather than the person's current skill level. It is often used in educational settings or self-improvement contexts.

  • As a language learner, he practiced speaking with native speakers every day
  • The driving instructor was patient with the new learners on their first day
amateur

This word often implies that someone engages in an activity for pleasure rather than as a profession. It can have a slightly negative connotation if used to suggest a lack of skill or professionalism.

  • The amateur photographer captured some stunning shots of the sunset
  • Though he was just an amateur, his paintings were quite impressive

Examples of usage

  • He is a novice in the world of photography.
  • She started as a novice but quickly became an expert.
  • The novice struggled to keep up with the experienced players.
  • The company offers training programs for novices.
  • As a novice, he still has a lot to learn.
Context #2 | Noun

a religious context

A person who has entered a religious community and is under probation, before taking vows.

Synonyms

neophyte, postulant, probationer.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
novice

This term is often used to describe someone who is new to a particular activity, job, or field. It is quite a neutral term without negative connotations.

  • She is a novice in the world of cooking but eager to learn.
  • As a novice teacher, he has a lot to prove.
postulant

This term is specifically used within a religious context to describe someone who is seeking to join a religious order and is in the preliminary stage of admission.

  • The postulant spent her days in prayer and reflection, preparing for her vows.
  • As a postulant, he was undergoing a period of discernment.
probationer

This term is used to describe someone who is undergoing a trial period in a new role, job, or organization. It applies to various contexts, including employment and education.

  • The probationer nurse was closely supervised during her first few weeks.
  • As a probationer, he had to prove his capabilities to secure a permanent position.
neophyte

This word is used to describe someone who is new to a subject, activity, or belief, particularly in religious or spiritual contexts. It can also be used more broadly but carries a formal tone.

  • The neophyte monk was eager to start his spiritual journey.
  • Even as a neophyte in the startup world, she showed great potential.

Examples of usage

  • She decided to become a novice and join the convent.
  • The novices spend a year in prayer and contemplation.
  • The novice monk was assigned various tasks in the monastery.
  • Novices are guided by experienced members of the community.
  • The novice nun was eager to deepen her spiritual practice.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'novice'

The word 'novice' comes from the Middle French word 'novice', which means 'newly received'. It was first recorded in the late 14th century. Originally used in religious contexts to refer to someone new to a religious order, it later expanded to refer to anyone who is new to a particular skill or activity.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,371, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.