Experience is what you gain by doing, seeing, or living through something. When you ride a bike for the first time, solve a tough math problem, or visit a new place, you're having an experience. Each experience teaches you something, even if you don't realize it at the moment.

The word works two ways. First, it means the actual event itself: “Seeing the Grand Canyon was an amazing experience.” Second, it means the knowledge and skill you build up over time: “She has a lot of experience with dogs because her family has owned three.” An experienced teacher knows how to handle classroom challenges because she's encountered them many times before.

Experience often comes from making mistakes and figuring things out. A chess player with experience has lost many games and learned from each one. That's why people say “you can't buy experience.” No amount of reading about swimming teaches you as much as jumping in the pool. When you experience something firsthand, you understand it in a way that no book or video can fully capture.

Some experiences are pleasant, like tasting a delicious meal. Others are difficult, like dealing with a friendship problem. Both kinds can shape who you are and how you handle future situations.