in practice

1. As something actually is or is done in reality, as opposed to in theory. Yes, that was the hypothesis, but these things often turn out quite different in practice. In practice, that rule is not strictly enforced, so a lot of players get away with it.2. In the state of being prepared due to having practiced something regularly, recently, and/or to a sufficient degree. I used to be able to do this with my eyes closed, but I'm really not in practice.3. Serving in a professional field, often as a doctor, attorney, etc. Dr. Johnson is retiring after having been in practice for more than 30 years.See also: practice

in practice

1. in the actual doing of something; in reality. Our policy is to be very particular, but in practice we don't care that much. The instructions say not to set it too high. In practice I always set it as high as possible. 2. well-rehearsed; well-practiced; well-exercised. The swimmer was not in practice and almost drowned. I play the piano for a living, and I have to keep in practice.See also: practice

in practice

1. Actually, in fact, especially as opposed to theoretically or in principle. For example, In practice this contraption seems to work, although no one knows how or why. [Second half of 1500s] Also see put into practice. 2. In the exercise of a particular profession, as in She's an obstetrician and has been in practice for at least ten years. [c. 1700] 3. In a state of being exercised so as to maintain one's skill, as in This trumpeter is always in practice. [Early 1600s] For an antonym, see out of practice. See also: practice

in ˈpractice

in reality; in fact; in a real or normal situation: The pilot is there to fly the plane, but in practice it flies itself most of the time. ♢ In theory it should work very well, but in practice it doesn’t.See also: practice