in practice

Idioms  

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 .

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Example Sentences

But in practice, besides American oil traders, no one appears to be celebrating or taking this too seriously just yet.

From Slate • Apr. 17, 2026

A FirstNet Authority spokesman said the standards represent minimum requirements, and in practice the network operates above those levels.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 16, 2026

When I press Langengen on how electricity prices could be reduced in practice, she acknowledges there is "no magic wand".

From BBC • Apr. 15, 2026

We’re going to place an emphasis on every drill in practice.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 14, 2026

“Yep. Coach Carney named it ‘Fist,’ but I called it ‘Rashad’ in practice, and I’m gonna call it that in the game, too.

From "All American Boys" by Jason Reynolds