practical

/ˈpræktɪkəl/
adjectiveIntermediate
formal

Useful, sensible, and likely to succeed in real situations; based on experience rather than theory.

The new software update is practical and improves user experience.

The new software update is useful and improves user experience.

She gave me practical advice on how to manage my time effectively.

She gave me sensible advice on how to manage my time effectively.

💡

Often used to describe solutions, advice, or methods that are effective and applicable in real-life situations.

Collocations

practical solutiona useful and effective way to solve a problempractical advicesensible and actionable guidancepractical skillsskills that are useful in real-life situations

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

practical jokephrase
a harmless trick played on someone for fun
practical experiencephrase
hands-on experience gained through doing something

💡Pro Tip

Use 'practical' to describe real-world applicability

When describing something as 'practical,' focus on its usefulness and effectiveness in real-life situations rather than its theoretical aspects.

Gold Rule

Avoid confusion with 'practicable'

'Practical' refers to usefulness, while 'practicable' refers to something that can be done or carried out.

📖Word Origin

From Middle English 'practical,' from Old French 'practique,' from Latin 'practicus,' from Greek 'praktikos,' meaning 'fit for action.'

📝Usage Notes

The word 'practical' is often used to describe things that are useful and effective in real-life situations. It is commonly used in contexts where theoretical knowledge is applied to solve problems or improve efficiency.

Word Breakdown

pract-
action, doing
root
+
-ical
relating to
suffix
English Dictionary