experience
n. C / Un. the knowledge or skill you get from doing something for a long time. It can also mean something that happens to you which affects how you feel.
n. the knowledge or practical wisdom gained through direct involvement in or exposure to events. When referring to a specific event, it describes an occurrence that leaves an impression on someone.
She has a lot of experience in teaching.
Traveling alone through South America was a life-changing experience that taught him how to be more independent.
The hiring committee prioritizes candidates with extensive field experience over those who have only studied the theoretical aspects of the industry in a classroom setting.
From Middle English experience, from Old French, from Latin experientia (“a trial, proof, experiment, experimental knowledge, experience”), from experiens, present participle of experiri (“to try, put to the test, undertake, undergo”), from ex (“out”) + peritus (“experienced, expert”), past participle of *periri (“to go through”); see expert and peril. Displaced native Old English āfandung (“experience”) and āfandian (“to experience”).
Uncountable when referring to general knowledge or skill gained over time; countable when referring to a specific event or occurrence.
I had many experiences in my jobI had much experience in my jobWhen referring to the total skill or knowledge gained from work, the noun is uncountable and should not be pluralized.