workmanlike

Or work·man·ly

[wurk-muhn-lahyk]

adjective

1. like or befitting a workman.

2. skillful; well executed.

   a workmanlike piece of writing.

workmanlike

/ ˈwɜːkmənlɪ, ˈwɜːkmənˌlaɪk /

adjective

1. appropriate to or befitting a good workman

Other Word Forms

• unworkmanlike adjective
• unworkmanly adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of workmanlike¹

First recorded in 1400–50, workmanlike is from the late Middle English word werkmanlike. See workman, -like

Example Sentences

“He was a consistently strong sportscaster. A very good, workmanlike boxing broadcaster; well-prepared, clear and effective in his calls.”

From Los Angeles Times

But in the wake of Carpenter’s hugely successful “Halloween,” Cunningham put together a bargain-basement team of mostly unknowns and directed 1980’s workmanlike “Friday the 13th,” as much in the firmament as any slasher.

From Los Angeles Times

Here’s one workmanlike way that prosecutor Joshua Steinglass might approach the task of tying together the evidence presented throughout a trial that began in April”: Emphasize the “Trump Tower conspiracy” that prosecutors have proven.

From Salon

Albini paired his dedication to the most vicious, arresting sounds possible with a workmanlike professionalism as a producer in his studio, Electrical Audio.

From Los Angeles Times

The third and fourth can take on more physical or workmanlike roles.

From Seattle Times