practical
- 01 B1 Intermediate
adj.useful and sensible for real-life situations rather than just ideas.
adj.relating to or based on action and experience rather than theory; likely to be effective when applied to real-world scenarios.
Simple“We need a practical solution to the traffic problem, not just a beautiful map.”
In context“While the proposal was intellectually stimulating, the board rejected it in favour of a more practical approach that addressed immediate budget constraints.”
SynonymsAntonyms - 02 B1 Intermediate
adj.good at making or fixing things with your hands.
adj.possessing manual dexterity or the ability to solve physical problems effectively.
Simple“My brother is very practical and fixed the broken sink in ten minutes.”
In context“The vocational course is designed for practical students who prefer workshop environments to traditional classroom lectures.”
SynonymsAntonyms - 03 C1 Advanced
adj.a prop or light on a film set that actually works like a real one.
adj.referring to a prop or light fixture that is functional and appears within the frame as part of the scenery.
Simple“The director wanted a practical lamp on the desk so the actor could turn it on.”
In context“The cinematographer insisted on using practical lights within the scene to create a more authentic atmosphere for the night shoot.”
SynonymsAntonyms - 04 B2 Upper Intermediate
n.a lesson or exam where you have to do something physical, like a science experiment.
n.an examination or lesson in which students demonstrate their skills by performing tasks rather than writing about them.
Simple“We have our chemistry practical tomorrow, so I need to remember the safety rules.”
In context“The final grade for the biology module is determined by a written paper and a three-hour laboratory practical.”
SynonymsAntonyms
practical vs practicable — Practical describes things that are useful or realistic in practice, while practicable describes a plan or method that is capable of being carried out.
Usage practical support · practical terms · practical guidance
From Middle English practical, practicale, praktycall, from Medieval Latin practicālis.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.