What is the word meaning in practice?

• A. Virtual
• B. Real
• C. Actual
• D. Practical

Answer: (A)

Think about what “in practice” implies: what happens in reality, in effect, or almost to the point of being true. The word that fits that sense is virtual, because we use it to form virtually meaning almost or nearly. When we say two things are virtually the same, we mean they are the same in practice, even if not exactly identical. The other options push toward truth or existence (real, actual) or toward usefulness and applicability (practical), rather than the sense of being close to reality in everyday use. So the best match for “in practice” is virtual.