ENGLISH
REFERENCE

practical

adj.
B1 Intermediate Oxford US //ˈpɹæktəkəɫ// UK //pɹˈæktɪkəl// prac·ti·cal General-service

adj. useful and effective in real situations rather than just in ideas. You use this to describe something that works well for a specific purpose.

adj. relating to experience, actual use, or action rather than theory or ideas. Often describes solutions or skills that are functional and realistic.


SIMPLE

You should wear practical shoes for the long walk.

CONTEXTUAL

The workshop provides practical advice on how to manage a small business budget effectively.

COMPLEX

While the architect's vision was aesthetically stunning, the building lacked the practical features necessary for a high-traffic public space.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Origin

From Middle English practical, practicale, praktycall, from Medieval Latin practicālis.

Usage

Typically placed before the noun it modifies; can also follow a linking verb like 'be' or 'seem'.

Pitfall

a practical person for the joba suitable person for the jobLearners sometimes use 'practical' to mean 'appropriate' or 'suitable' for a person, but it usually describes things, skills, or ideas.

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