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Novices Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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novices

[ˈnɒvɪsɪz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

inexperienced

Novices are individuals who are new or inexperienced in a particular activity or skill.

Synonyms

amateur, beginner, rookie.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
novices

Generally used in formal or professional settings to describe people new to a field or activity who lack experience and knowledge.

  • The novices in the cooking class are still learning the basics.
  • The novices received extra guidance during their first week at the job.
beginner

Used in everyday language to describe someone just starting to learn or do something, without any negative connotations.

  • As a beginner in French, she still struggles with basic phrases.
  • This book is perfect for beginners learning to play the guitar.
rookie

Often used in sports or informal settings to describe someone in their first year or who is new to a particular activity, job, or profession. Can carry a playful or slightly negative tone when highlighting inexperience.

  • The rookie made several mistakes, but the team supported him.
  • As a rookie in the police force, she was eager to prove herself.
amateur

Typically describes someone who engages in a sport, activity, or hobby on a non-professional, often casual basis. Can imply a lack of skill compared to professionals, sometimes with negative connotations.

  • He's an amateur photographer who loves taking pictures in his free time.
  • The amateur soccer team is not as skilled as the professional league.

Examples of usage

  • Novices in the field of cooking often make simple mistakes at first.
  • She started as a novice but quickly learned the ropes.
Context #2 | Noun

religious

In some religious traditions, novices are individuals who are preparing to become full members of the religious community, often undergoing a period of training and probation.

Examples of usage

  • The novices spent several months in prayer and contemplation.
  • She decided to join the convent as a novice.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Education

  • In educational contexts, novices are often part of instructional models designed to help learners gradually gain expertise over time.
  • The term 'novice' differentiates beginners from intermediates or experts, highlighting the learning curve in any skill development.

Sports

  • Many sports leagues have 'novice' categories to allow new players to compete without being overshadowed by more experienced athletes.
  • Novice competitions are often designed to encourage participation and skill development in a welcoming environment.

Psychology

  • Cognitive development theories suggest that novices go through stages of learning, often starting with observation before attempting a skill.
  • Expert-novice studies in psychology explore how experienced individuals solve problems differently than those who are new.

Pop Culture

  • In various films and books, novice characters often undergo a transformation through challenges, symbolizing personal growth.
  • Competitions like cooking shows often feature novice contestants, showcasing their journey from inexperience to competence.

Origin of 'novices'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Latin word 'novicius', meaning 'new' or 'young' – referring to someone new to a particular field.
  • In medieval times, 'novice' referred to someone who was newly joined to a religious order, indicating their newness to the community.

The word 'novices' originated from the Middle English word 'novice', which came from the Old French word 'novice' meaning 'newly imported, newly arrived'. The term has been used since the 14th century to refer to beginners or newcomers in various fields.

See also: novitiate.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,161, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.