ENGLISH
REFERENCE

practicing

v. · adj. · n.
US //ˈpɹæktəsɪŋ// UK //pɹˈæktɪsɪŋ// prac·tic·ing
  1. 1 training to improve (v.)
    A2 Elementary American English

    doing an activity many times so you can become better at it.

    performing an activity or exercise repeatedly or regularly in order to acquire, improve, or maintain proficiency.

    Example

    She is practicing her guitar every day before the big concert.

    Example

    The athletes spent the entire afternoon practicing their defensive formations under the watchful eye of the head coach.

    Usage

    In British English, the verb is spelled 'practising' with an 's'.
    Pitfall
    I am practicing to the piano.
    I am practicing the piano.

    The verb 'practice' is transitive; you practice a skill or an instrument directly without the preposition 'to'.

  2. 2 active in a profession (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate American English Law

    actively working in a professional job, especially as a doctor or lawyer.

    actively engaged in a specific profession, particularly one requiring a license or formal qualification.

    Example

    He is a practicing lawyer who helps people with their taxes.

    Example

    The hospital only hires practicing physicians who have maintained their board certifications through regular continuing education.

    Usage

    Usually placed before the noun.
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  1. 3 active in a religion (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate American English Religion

    regularly following the rules and attending the services of a religion.

    actively participating in the rituals, ceremonies, and lifestyle requirements of a specific faith.

    Example

    As a practicing Catholic, she goes to church every Sunday morning.

    Example

    The community center provides resources for practicing Muslims, including a dedicated space for daily prayers and dietary-compliant meals.
  2. 4 the act of doing (n.)
    B1 Intermediate American English

    the act of doing something or carrying out a habit.

    the action or process of carrying out a particular activity or habit.

    Example

    The practicing of medicine requires many years of difficult study.

    Example

    The constant practicing of these safety drills ensured that the crew reacted instinctively when the alarm finally sounded.

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