in practice
idiom
—used to say what is actually done or what the actual effect or result of something is
The software is designed to block pornographic websites, but in practice, it blocks many other sites as well.
In actual practice, people sometimes forget to take their medication.
Examples of in practice in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Brockington’s contributions have come mainly in practice, particularly early in the season as he got readjusted to Sutton’s expectations.
—
Matt Le Cren, Chicago Tribune, 19 Feb. 2026
What does that formula look like in practice?
—Aaron Heisen, Daily News, 18 Feb. 2026
But in practice, Carney’s response to Trump’s bullying has been a newfound openness to China.
—Simon Shuster, The Atlantic, 18 Feb. 2026
The competition in practice is fierce at TFA, with star talent all over the field, which Anderson said has prepared him for his upcoming freshman season.
—Chris Hays, The Orlando Sentinel, 16 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for in practice
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Matt Le Cren, Chicago Tribune, 19 Feb. 2026
What does that formula look like in practice?
—Aaron Heisen, Daily News, 18 Feb. 2026
But in practice, Carney’s response to Trump’s bullying has been a newfound openness to China.
—Simon Shuster, The Atlantic, 18 Feb. 2026
The competition in practice is fierce at TFA, with star talent all over the field, which Anderson said has prepared him for his upcoming freshman season.
—Chris Hays, The Orlando Sentinel, 16 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for in practice
Cite this Entry
“In practice.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/in%20practice. Accessed 24 Feb. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
