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 Words From

• un·workman·like adjective
• un·workman·ly 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

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

It has been a workmanlike training camp for last year’s No. 4 overall draft selection, evidenced not only by Wright staying late after practices but also his picking up on professional hockey nuances.

From Seattle Times