Doctors "practice" medicine. Dentists "practice" dentistry. Where did this phrase intiate? Shouldn't there be a more affirmative phrase given the importance of there jobs? I do agree that Lawyers "practice", however.
2007-02-07 11:06:49 · 1 answers · asked by sawasdee2288 1 in Education & Reference ➔ Words & Wordplay
Caveat: The following is my own thinking/deduction......
It's possible that the usage of the term harks back to the days in which one became a barber-surgeon, or doctor-leach by serving an apprenticeship, and these disciplines were regarded in much the same light as other crafts (eg, woodworking, masonry) which were regarded as crafts.
As such, the more one practiced -- whether as an apprentice or as a fully qualified professional -- the better one became at one's craft. It would then follow that someone who's been practicing for 40 years would be better at his job than a mere novice.
In this case, "practice" connotes the continued quest for betterment.
Will this help reassure next time you seek medical help?
2007-02-08 10:08:27 · answer #1 · answered by Lady Yaz 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋