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

“His professionalism, commitment to his craft and game preparation paved the way for the coaching we see across the league today.”

From Los Angeles Times

To find the right words to give them, you need a high level of professionalism.

From Los Angeles Times

His professionalism and skill to broadcast fairly without bias on Fox Sports did not go unnoticed.

From Los Angeles Times

As a practical matter, by far the most important protections against vengeful prosecutions are career federal prosecutors’ nonpartisan professionalism and the norms forbidding the White House from telling them whom to prosecute.

From Los Angeles Times

Hearing tributes to his son’s bravery, his personality and the respect for his professionalism as a soldier in a foreign army has given Michael a lot of pride.

From BBC

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