排练

• Pinyin: pái liàn
• Hanzi breakdown: 排 = 手 + 非 (arrange in sequence); 练 = 纟 + 束 (practise repeatedly)

Meaning

Rehearse; to practise a performance or presentation in preparation for the real event.

Used for theatrical rehearsals, speech practice, event preparation, and formal drill. Implies systematic, repeated practice with full execution rather than casual run-throughs.

Examples

1. 乐团在演出前连续排练了三周。 The orchestra rehearsed for three straight weeks before the performance.
2. 他们正在为毕业典礼排练致辞。 They are rehearsing a speech for the graduation ceremony.
3. 舞台剧需要经过无数次排练才能达到完美。 A stage play needs countless rehearsals to reach perfection.

Usage Guide

Context: arts, performance, education

Tone: neutral

Do Say

• 全体演员已经排练了十遍，准备就绪。(All cast members have rehearsed ten times and are ready.)
• 导演要求演员明天上午排练第一幕。(The director asked the actors to rehearse Act One tomorrow morning.)

Don't Say

• 我在排练我的汉语发音 — use 练习 instead for practising individual skills or pronunciation

Origin & History

排 (arrange, put in order) + 练 (practise, drill)

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal