ENGLISH
REFERENCE

exercise

n. · v.
US //ˈɛksɝˌsaɪz// UK //ˈɛksəsˌaɪz// ex·er·cise
  1. 1 physical activity (n.)
    A1 Beginner

    physical activity that you do to stay healthy and strong.

    physical activity intended to improve or maintain health, fitness, or strength.

    Example

    You should do some form of exercise every day to keep your heart healthy.

    Example

    Regular aerobic exercise is widely considered the most effective non-pharmacological intervention for maintaining cardiovascular health in sedentary adults.
    Pitfall
    I did many exercises this morning at the gym.
    I did a lot of exercise this morning at the gym.

    When referring to physical activity in general, 'exercise' is usually uncountable. Use the plural 'exercises' for specific, individual movements like sit-ups.

  2. 2 a learning task (n.)
    A1 Beginner

    a short piece of work you do to practice a skill, like a grammar task.

    a specific task or activity designed to develop or hone a particular skill or ability.

    Example

    Please complete the grammar exercise on page ten for your homework.

    Example

    The textbook includes a series of listening exercises designed to familiarise students with various regional accents.
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  1. 3 use of a right or power (n.)
    C1 Advanced Formal

    the act of using a power, a right, or a quality.

    the application or employment of a right, power, or faculty.

    Example

    The peaceful protest was a clear exercise of their right to free speech.

    Example

    The judge ruled that the seizure of the documents was a legitimate exercise of police powers under the current security legislation.
  2. 4 to work out (v.)
    A2 Elementary

    to do physical activity to become stronger or healthier.

    to engage in physical activity for the purpose of health or training.

    Example

    She likes to exercise in the park before she goes to work.

    Example

    While some athletes prefer to exercise alone to maintain focus, others find that group environments provide necessary motivation.
  3. 5 to use a right or option (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Formal Law

    to use a legal right or a choice that you have.

    to put into practice or bring to bear a right, power, or contractual option.

    Example

    You must exercise caution when driving on icy roads.

    Example

    The investors decided to exercise their option to purchase additional shares before the end of the fiscal year.

    Usage

    Often used with objects like 'rights', 'authority', 'caution', or 'options'.
Origin

From Middle English exercise, from Old French exercise, from Latin exercitium.

Word family

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