English Profile

exercise · noun

/ˈek.sərˌsɑɪz/Full view

exercise (PHYSICAL ACTIVITY)

A2 C or U physical activity that you do to make your body strong and healthy

Dictionary examples:

You really should get more exercise.

Swimming is my favorite form of exercise.

I do stomach exercises most days.

Learner example:

I can also [get some] exercise with the bicycle. (Key English Test; A2; Bengali)

exercise (PRACTICE)

A2 C a short piece of written work which you do to practice something you are learning

Dictionary example:

The book has exercises at the end of every chapter.

Learner example:

It's a new book and it has all [the] nece[s]sary exercises for secondary school. (Key English Test; A2; Spanish)

exercise (MILITARY)

C2 C a set of actions that a group of soldiers do to practice their skills

Dictionary example:

The cadets are out on military exercises.

Learner example:

I am not opposed to military exercises, but such a noisy activity cannot be tolerated in a world in which environmental protection should be promoted by everybody, [including] the army. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; German)

exercise · verb

/ˈek.sərˌsɑɪz/

exercise (PHYSICAL ACTIVITY)

B1 I or T to do physical activities to make your body strong and healthy

Dictionary examples:

She exercises most evenings, usually by running.

A work-out in the gym can exercise all the major muscle groups.

Learner example:

It's funny how I heard about that; I was at the gym with Sarah, we were exercising when we heard Tom talking about it with John. (Preliminary English Test; B1; Italian)

exercise (USE)

C2 T to use a power, right, or ability

Dictionary example:

You should always exercise your right to vote.

Learner example:

However, if you believe that nothing can be done, I have to inform you that we will exercise our legal rights and take action against you. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Dutch)