Be/get out of practice

usgb
phrase

To lose ability or skill in something because of not doing it regularly.

I used to play the piano very well, but I haven't played for years. I guess I'm out of practice.
Visual representation of "be/get out of practice" - To lose ability or skill in something because of not doing it regularly

Often appears as...

  • out of practice in
  • out of practice with
Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "be/get out of practice"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Regular Practice

Frequent activity keeps skills sharp; infrequent activity leads to the phrase 'out of practice'.

Illustration for Regular Practice
If you don't practice speaking English, you might soon find yourself out of practice.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Skill Decay

When a skill isn't used often, it can fade away, like muscles can weaken without exercise.

Illustration for Skill Decay
I'm out of practice at biking; hills are much harder now.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Temporal Reference

The phrase often implies that there was a time when the skill was better due to regular use.

Illustration for Temporal Reference
She was out of practice with her French since she hadn't visited France in years.
Visual representation of the word "Be/get out of practice"

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