Meaning
练 means to practice or train through repetition. It emphasizes the process of improving a skill through repeated effort and exercise. The character is commonly used for practicing languages, sports, musical instruments, or any skill that requires regular training.
Usage
This is a very common verb that Chinese learners encounter early. It's often paired with specific skills (练字 practice calligraphy, 练琴 practice piano, 练口语 practice speaking). Native speakers use it both for physical training and mental/skill development. It typically takes objects that represent the skill being practiced.
Examples
- 01我每天都练中文。.I practice Chinese every day.
- 02他练了两个小时的钢琴。.He practiced piano for two hours.
Common collocations
- 练习to practice, practice
- 练口语to practice speaking
- 练字to practice writing characters
- 练琴to practice a musical instrument
Antonyms
Origin
The traditional form 練 contains the silk radical 糸, originally referring to boiling and refining raw silk, which required repeated processing. This meaning extended metaphorically to mean refining skills through repetition.