professionalism

[ pruh-fesh-uh-nl-iz-uhm ]

noun

1. professional character, spirit, or methods.
2. the standing, practice, or methods of a professional, as distinguished from an amateur.

Word History and Origins

Origin of professionalism¹

First recorded in 1855–60; professional + -ism

Example Sentences

A laptop stand can help lift your computer to a more convenient height as well as provide ventilation opportunities and add a degree of professionalism to your home office.

From Popular-Science

Let’s please bring back civility to our political discourse and hold our presidential candidates to the same level of professionalism that has been expected in years past.

From Fortune

This extension-packed list also boasts a wide variety of efficient social media extensions that boost professionalism, punctuality, and productivity.

From Search Engine Watch

Some guidelines are common sense etiquette and professionalism while others are specifically outlined by the publisher.

From Search Engine Watch

Follow-up emails show responsibility, eagerness, and a certain level of professionalism.

From Search Engine Watch

Her polished professionalism is criticized, as if being a polished professional is a bad thing.

From The Daily Beast

Little the criminals knew about the professionalism of journalists.

From The Daily Beast

Physicians will regain our professionalism when we stop participating in this circus.

From The Daily Beast

It is beyond belief, and it is shocking that someone who makes claims of professionalism would lower himself to this level.

From The Daily Beast

Bloomberg conveyed a sense of professionalism and of someone very much in control.

From The Daily Beast

Physicians, for instance, exhibit professionalism when they practice medicine without concern for the patient.

From Project Gutenberg

Teachers exhibit professionalism when they teach their subject as an end in itself or for their own satisfaction.

From Project Gutenberg

In the first place, professionalism is marked by condescension in which an attitude of superiority is evident.

From Project Gutenberg

Professionalism impoverishes relationship because, for instance, neither the parent nor the child gives or receives.

From Project Gutenberg

He said it was cockney impudence because it lacked the professionalism he expected.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• civility
• expertise
• rectitude
• respectability

More About Professionalism

What does professionalism mean?

Professionalism most commonly means the state or practice of doing one’s job with skill, competence, ethics, and courtesy.

Professionalism is based on the word professional, which is commonly used as an adjective to describe someone who works in this way—someone who shows professionalism. Professionalism is shown by people who take their work seriously and respect the people they work with.

The word professionalism can also be used to distinguish the practices of a person who gets paid for their work from those of an amateur (which is someone who does it for fun).

Example: That level of skill, dedication, and professionalism are exactly what we’re looking for in our next production manager.

Where does professionalism come from?

The first records of the word professionalism come from the mid-1880s. The word professional is recorded earlier, in the mid-1700s. It comes from the word profession, referring to one’s occupation—what one does for work. The root of all these words is the Latin professiō, meaning “public acknowledgment.” (The English words profess and professor are related.)

Someone who shows professionalism is good at their job—they’re skilled and competent—but the word often implies more than that. People described as true professionals conduct themselves in a way that shows respect for those they work with, as well as anyone else they might interact with as part of their job, such as customers. The word is often used in reference to those with experience and a knowledge of how to act in the workplace, but you don’t need to have experience to show professionalism.

Did you know ... ?

What are some other forms of professionalism?

• professional (adjective, noun)
• professionally (adverb)
• professionalist (noun)

What are some words that share a root or word element with professionalism? 

 

• profession
• profess

What are some words that often get used in discussing professionalism?

• competence
• expertise
• skill
• job
• courtesy
• communication
• civility
• respect
• work ethic

How is professionalism used in real life?

Professionalism is always used positively. It’s often used in job listings seeking an employee who will work with professionalism and in compliments about such workers.

I want to be exceedingly clear: We wouldn’t have been nearly as prepared and our teachers wouldn’t have been nearly as supported if not for the outstanding work ethic and professionalism of the #FCPSsbts. I say this as both a parent and an FCPS educator.

— Drew Campbell (@MrDrewCampbell) April 16, 2020

Incredibly proud of all my football clients, and how each of them exemplify the principles & values upon which KMM was founded. And our 2020 Draft Class has been beyond impressive, handling this draft process with patience and professionalism. SO honored to be their agent.

— Kelli Masters Mgmt (@KMMsports) April 16, 2020

Even when my friends/family book/order a cake, I maintain professionalism at all times. Even the voice changes.

— Bhubesi the Baker (Bhuby, for context) (@ManthaRudd) May 12, 2020

 

 

Try using professionalism!

Which of the following words does NOT describe someone who is showing professionalism?

A. courteous
B. respectful
C. reliable
D. inconsiderate