Nonprofessional: meaning, definitions and examples
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nonprofessional
[ nɒnprəˈfɛʃənl ]
general use
The term 'nonprofessional' refers to someone who is not a professional in a particular field or occupation. This can imply that the individual does not have formal training or certification in that area. Often, it is used to describe activities done by amateurs rather than experts.
Synonyms
amateur, hobbyist, layperson, novice.
Examples of usage
- He is a nonprofessional photographer who enjoys taking pictures in his spare time.
- She accepted nonprofessional help for her project, relying on friends and family.
- Many nonprofessional athletes participate in local competitions for fun.
Etymology
The term 'nonprofessional' originated in the early 20th century, combining 'non-', a prefix meaning 'not', with 'professional', which derives from the Latin word 'professio', meaning 'public declaration'. The use of 'professional' began to denote those who are licensed or certified in their fields of work, particularly in contrast to amateurs. Thus, 'nonprofessional' emerged to categorize individuals lacking such credentials. Over time, the term has evolved in usage, often applied in various contexts, including sports, arts, and technical fields, emphasizing a distinction between trained individuals and those engaging in an activity without formal qualifications.