Quick answer
In British English, practice with a C is the noun and practise with an S is the verb: you practise the piano, and you need more practice. American English uses practice for both. The C-noun, S-verb pattern is the same as advice/advise and licence/license.
The core difference
A noun and a verb in British English; one spelling in American English.
- practice (British noun) — piano practice, a medical practice.
- practise (British verb) — practise daily, a practising solicitor.
- practice (American, both).
The reliable test
Substitute advice and advise, which sound different and so are easy to hear. "I need more advice" → noun → practice. "Let me advise you" → verb → practise. The test works because both pairs follow the identical pattern.
Where it shows up
Frequently asked questions
Which spelling is the verb?
Practise in British English. American English uses practice for both.
How do I test which I need?
Substitute advice or advise — they follow the same pattern but sound different, so your ear can decide.
What about practising as an adjective?
It comes from the verb, so British English spells it practising — a practising solicitor.
