professionalism

American  

[pruh-fesh-uh-nl-iz-uhm] / prəˈfɛʃ ə nlˌɪz əm /

noun

1. professional character, spirit, or methods.

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

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Usage

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.

Etymology

Origin of professionalism

First recorded in 1855–60; professional + -ism

Example Sentences

I hated investment banking, but the job exposed me to professionalism, intensity and paying attention to details.

From The Wall Street Journal

“The Department has defeated many of these lawsuits all the way up to the Supreme Court and will continue to defend the President’s agenda with the utmost professionalism,” a DOJ spokeswoman told me by email.

From Los Angeles Times

He has more customers waiting, attracted by his sign promising repairs "with high professionalism and without adhesive tape".

From BBC

"His Royal Highness was moved by the courage shown by the children and their families and by the dedication of the team who are supporting them with such professionalism and humanity."

From BBC

Concerns have been raised over the professionalism and legitimacy of the Women's League Cup quarter-final and semi-final draw, which was conducted by a social media influencer.

From BBC

Related Words

• civility
• expertise
• rectitude
• respectability