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Practising Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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practising

[ˈpræktɪsɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

skill development

Practising refers to the act of repeatedly performing an activity or exercising a skill to improve proficiency or mastery. This term is often used in relation to arts, sports, or academic subjects where continuous effort and practice lead to better performance. The process of practising is essential for learning and can take many forms depending on the subject matter. It's not just about repetition; it also involves refining techniques, understanding nuances, and honing one's abilities over time.

Synonyms

drilling, improving, rehearsing, training.

Examples of usage

  • She is practising the piano for her recital.
  • Athletes spend hours practising their moves.
  • He is practising his speech for the presentation.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Studies show that regular practice enhances brain connectivity, improving memory and cognitive skills.
  • The concept of 'deliberate practice' is crucial for mastering skills, emphasizing focused and structured effort.
  • Practising a skill has been shown to increase motivation and enjoyment in activities, making learning more engaging.

Education

  • Educational theories suggest that spaced repetition during practice significantly boosts long-term retention of information.
  • In music education, systematic practising is essential for mastering instruments, as highlighted in numerous pedagogical studies.
  • Peer feedback during practice sessions is linked to improved performance and faster skill development.

Sports

  • Athletes often engage in rigorous training sessions, or 'practice', to refine their techniques and prepare for competitions.
  • Visualization techniques are frequently used during practice to enhance performance, helping athletes mentally rehearse their routines.
  • The '10,000-hour rule' popularized by Malcolm Gladwell suggests that extensive practice is key to achieving expertise in a field.

Pop Culture

  • Many iconic musicians have emphasized the importance of practice in interviews, often attributing their success to hours spent honing their craft.
  • In motivational speeches, figures like J.K. Rowling and Steve Jobs have stressed that perseverance in practising leads to remarkable achievements.
  • Television shows about talent competitions frequently highlight the role of practice in contestants' journeys toward success.

Origin of 'practising'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'practica', meaning 'practice' or 'action'.
  • Its use in English dates back to the 14th century when it referred to the performance of a task or skill.
  • In British English, 'practising' is the correct spelling for the verb form, while 'practicing' is used in American English.

The word 'practising' comes from the Middle English term 'practisen', which derived from the Old French word 'practicer', originating from the Latin 'practicare'. The root of the word emphasizes the act of doing something repeatedly in order to become proficient at it. Over the centuries, 'practising' has evolved in its usage to incorporate not only the idea of repetition but also the concept of mastering skills in various disciplines, embodying a commitment to excellence and improvement through diligent effort. The use of 'practising' has become prominent in educational, artistic, and athletic contexts, where regular engagement is seen as the pathway to achievement.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,699, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.