Practise or Practice? The Difference Explained Clearly
Writer at work (Image generated from AI)
If you’ve ever hesitated over practise versus practice, you’re in very good company. Even confident writers and seasoned professionals stumble over this one. The two words sound identical, look almost identical, and refer to related ideas—so how do you know which to use?
The answer is surprisingly simple once you know the rule. And once you know it, you’ll never forget it
The Simple Rule (UK English)
In UK English, the distinction mirrors that of advice and advise:
• Practice (with a c) is a noun.
• Practise (with an s) is a verb.
If you can replace the word with action (a verb), use practise.
If you can replace the word with thing (a noun), use practice.
Examples:
• I need to practise my French before the exam. (verb → doing something)
• She has a thriving dental practice on the High Street. (noun → a thing)
• The more you practise, the better your practice becomes. (both!)
Why It Confuses People
The confusion largely comes from the influence of US English, where practice is used for both the noun and the verb. Global digital content, American software, and spell-checkers have all blurred the line for UK writers.
If you’re writing for a British audience, or you simply prefer precise, traditional usage, then sticking to the c = noun, s = verb pattern is the way to go.
A Quick Memory Trick
Think of:
• Advice → noun (ends in c)
• Advise → verb (ends in s)
Then apply the same pattern to:
• Practice → noun (ends in c)
• Practise → verb (ends in s)
If you can remember advice/advise, you can remember practice/practise.
What About Phrases?
Some common expressions help reinforce the distinction:
• Out of practice → noun
• Put it into practice → noun
• You need to practise → verb
• To practise what you preach → verb
You’ll notice these expressions always follow the same rule.
One More Tip: Check the Grammar
If you’re unsure, test the sentence:
• If you could replace the word with “rehearse”, use practise (verb).
• If you could replace it with “training” or “a habit”, use practice (noun).
Final Thoughts
Mastering the difference between practise and practice is an easy way to sharpen your writing and avoid a common pitfall, especially in professional, academic, and business contexts.
If you’re producing a CV, drafting marketing copy, or writing an academic essay, this is one of those details that signals clarity, precision, and care.
And if you ever feel unsure… practise until it becomes second nature.