While reading a document, you may see words like “practice” and “practise” thrown around interchangeably. You may have wondered if “practise” is even a word or if both words mean the same thing.
This isn’t the only example, however, as many words end in “-ise” and “-ice” which can confuse English learners.
Is “Practise” Even A Word?
In reality, “practise” is a word. However, it is mainly used in Australian and British English. In these versions of English, “practise” is the verb, while “practice” is the noun. These guidelines don’t carry over in American English, which opts to use “practice” in all situations.
Examples Of “Practise”
You may be wondering what “practise” looks like in common use as a verb. Take the following sentences, for example:
- I am trying to practise my French and German for my upcoming trip to Europe.
- I practise my chemistry problems every day because I heard the final is hard.
- I meant to practise for my driving test, but I never got to it.
Here is an example from the British publication The Guardian:
“Nor did they have enough balls: Fifa had supplied 25 of the new Tango España balls to each participating nation but none of the ones allocated to El Salvador made it as far as the players, who had to ask Hungary to lend them a couple so they could practise before their first match.”
Examples Of “Practice”
Similarly, you may also be wondering what “practice” looks like when used as a noun. Take a look at the following sentences:
- I am starting my medical practice down in the city!
- The hospital’s practices were less than ideal.
Here is a New York Times article using it as a noun:
“To document the practice of cold-water plunging in the near-freezing waters of Maine, a photojournalist took to the ice, then under it.”
“Advise” And “Advice“
As mentioned, there are many pairs of words in the English language that poses this difficulty to readers/writers. For example, “advice” and “advise” are other great examples that stumble many people.
With these words, “advice” acts as the noun, while “advise” acts as the verb.
Examples Of “Advise”
Here are some examples of “advise” being used as a verb in sentences:
- We advise our patients to wait a few days before attempting any strenuous physical activity.
- I advised my students to finish their homework well before the final exam.
- My counselor advised me about my college options.
Examples Of “Advice”
Moving on, check out these example sentences that use the verb “advice:”
- My teacher gave me some good advice today about what I should do in the future.
- I like to give my patients at least one good piece of advice.
- My advice is that you should do your homework!
Summary
- In Australian and British English “Practice” is used as a noun, while “Practise” is used as a verb.
- American English avoids the use of “Practise” altogether, preferring “Practice” for both noun and verb.
