English Reference
noun · adjective

novice

n. · adj.
US /ˈnɑvəs/ UK /nˈɒvɪs/ novice UK spelling novice's, novice's

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    n.someone who is new to a job, sport, or hobby and does not have much skill yet.

    n.a person who is new to and inexperienced in a particular field, trade, or situation.

    Simple

    Even a novice can learn to bake this simple bread in one afternoon.

    In context

    The workshop is designed to guide the complete novice through the basics of coding before moving on to more complex software architecture.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced FormalTechnical Religion

    n.a person who has joined a religious group, like monks or nuns, but has not yet taken their final vows.

    n.a person who has entered a religious order and is under probation, but has not yet taken final vows.

    Simple

    The young novice spent his first year at the monastery in quiet study.

    In context

    During her time as a novice, she was expected to follow the strict daily routine of the convent to determine if she was suited for a life of service.

    probationerpostulant
  3. 03 C1 Advanced Formal

    adj.describing someone who is just starting to learn a skill.

    adj.relating to or characteristic of a beginner; lacking experience in a specific domain.

    Simple

    He made a few novice mistakes during his first week at the office.

    In context

    The climber's novice technique was apparent as he struggled with the steeper sections of the granite face.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated