# routine

/ɹuˈtin/ (US)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/routine
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. regular habits

noun · CEFR B1

the usual series of things you do at a particular time.

For teachers: a sequence of actions regularly followed; a fixed program of daily or professional activity.

- My morning routine includes a short walk and a cup of coffee before work.
- Establishing a consistent bedtime routine can significantly improve sleep quality by signaling to the brain that it is time to wind down.

Usage: Often used with 'daily', 'morning', or 'work'.

### 2. performance act

noun · CEFR B2

a set of movements or jokes that someone performs for an audience.

For teachers: a scripted or choreographed sequence of actions performed by an entertainer or athlete.

- The comedian practiced his new routine for weeks before the big show.
- The gymnast executed a flawless floor routine, earning high marks for both technical difficulty and artistic expression.

### 3. computing task

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

a set of instructions in a computer program that does a specific job.

For teachers: a sequence of computer instructions, often called a subroutine, designed to perform a specific, frequently used task.

- The software uses a special routine to save your work automatically every five minutes.
- The developer optimized the sorting routine to handle large datasets more efficiently, reducing the overall processing time by thirty percent.

### 4. ordinary or standard

adjective · CEFR B2

done as a normal part of a job or process, rather than for a special reason.

For teachers: performed as part of a regular procedure rather than for a specific or exceptional reason.

- The pilot performed a routine safety check before the plane took off.
- The surgery was described as a routine procedure, yet the medical team remained vigilant for any unexpected complications during recovery.

## Examples

- I need a morning routine to stay organized.
- The athlete follows a strict daily routine that includes four hours of training and a specific diet.
- Establishing a predictable classroom routine helps students feel secure and allows the teacher to transition between activities without losing the group's attention.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.