B1adjective2K

Practical

UK /["/ˈpræktɪkl/"]/US /["/ˈpræktɪkl/"]/

Definition

connected with real situations rather than with ideas or theories

In simple words: Useful and based on real situations.

Examples

  • The practical applications of this theory can be seen in everyday life.
  • She offered some practical advice on how to manage stress.
  • He is quite practical, preferring solutions that work in the real world.
  • The workshop will include a practical demonstration of the new equipment.
  • For the project, we need a practical approach that can be easily implemented.

Usage notes

Use 'practical' when referring to something that is sensible and effective in real life. Avoid using it in highly technical or academic contexts where theoretical approaches are preferred.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of a 'practical tool' like a hammer that works well in real life.

Collocations

  • be
  • prove
  • seem
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very
  • be
  • prove
  • seem
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very
  • be
  • prove
  • seem
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very
  • be
  • prove
  • seem
  • extremely
  • fairly
  • very

Synonyms

  • handy

Antonyms

  • impractical
  • theoretical
  • useless

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'theoretical' which refers to ideas rather than practical applications.
  • Omitting the context; 'practical' needs to describe something applicable.
  • Using it in a very formal context where simpler words would suffice.