Practices: meaning, definitions and examples

Refers to the customary ways of doing things, often within a profession or community. This term is broad and can cover routine actions, cultural habits, or standard operating behaviors.

• Sustainable farming practices can help reduce environmental impact.
• His meditation practices have greatly improved his mental health.

Imply structured and systematic approaches to achieving a specific goal or result. It often involves a series of steps or techniques.

• Scientific methods are essential for conducting reliable experiments.
• She has developed new methods to teach children with dyslexia.

Refer to official or established ways of doing something, often documented and repeatable, making sure that tasks are performed consistently and correctly.

• The company has strict procedures for handling customer complaints.
• Safety procedures must be followed at all times in the laboratory.

Usually associated with formal rules or guidelines followed in research, diplomatic relations, medical treatment, and technology. It represents the highest level of official guidance.

• International protocols were signed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
• Medical protocols require doctors to follow certain steps during surgery.

This duplicate term 'practices' shares the same context and examples as the first entry, typically indicating a general or specific repeated activity within various settings.

• Yoga and meditation are commonly known wellness practices.
• Business practices sometimes change to adapt to new market trends.

Rituals usually refer to formal and ceremonial actions, often with symbolic meanings, performed in specific ways and sometimes associated with religious or spiritual practices.

• The wedding ceremony included several traditional rituals.
• Morning rituals can help set a positive tone for the day.

Traditions are long-held beliefs or activities that are passed down from generation to generation within a community or family.

• Every family has their own holiday traditions.
• The tradition of giving gifts at Christmas is celebrated in many parts of the world.

This term is best suited for describing long-established habits or social norms within a particular community or culture.

• In many Asian cultures, removing shoes before entering a home is a respected custom.
• Holiday customs often include specific foods and activities.

Use when talking about regular activities done to improve skills or perform a job better. Often used in professional or educational settings.

• She practices playing the piano every day.
• He follows effective management practices to ensure his team performs well.

Appropriate when referring to preparing for a performance, such as a play, music, or speech. It implies repeated practice to perfect a presentation.

• The actors rehearse their lines before the play.
• She needs to rehearse her speech thoroughly.

Used when talking about systematic instruction and practice to develop certain skills or proficiency, usually over a longer period or for a specific purpose.

• Athletes train hard for the competition.
• He is training to become a certified yoga instructor.

Typically used when referring to physical activities to keep the body fit and healthy. Can also be used for tasks done to improve skills.

• He does morning exercise to stay in good shape.
• This math exercise helps improve problem-solving skills.