Profession: meaning, definitions and examples

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profession

[prəˈfɛʃ(ə)n ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

job

A paid occupation, especially one that involves prolonged training and a formal qualification.

Synonyms

calling, career, occupation, vocation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
profession	Use when referring to a type of job that requires special training or a particular education. She decided to pursue a profession in medicine. Lawyers often face a lot of stress in their profession.
occupation	Refers to a person's job or the way they earn money, commonly used in a formal context. His occupation is listed as software developer. She changed her occupation from nursing to teaching.
vocation	Often used to describe a type of work to which a person feels particularly suited or dedicated, similar to 'calling'. He chose to follow his vocation as a priest. She considers teaching not just a job, but her vocation.
career	Used to describe the progression and actions taken by a person throughout their life, especially in a specific field or occupation. She is very focused on building her career in marketing. He has had a long and successful career in finance.
calling	Best used when referring to a strong urge toward a particular way of life, often implying a sense of purpose or mission. He always felt a calling to become a teacher. She believes her calling is to help others.

Examples of usage

Teaching is a noble profession.
She chose nursing as her profession.
Many people are pursuing careers in the medical profession.
He has been in the legal profession for over 20 years.
Professionals in the engineering profession often work on innovative projects.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

declaration

A declaration or statement of fact, especially one made in a formal way and often in public.

Synonyms

affirmation, assertion, avowal, declaration.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
profession	Used to refer to a type of job that requires special education, training, or skill. She entered the medical profession to help others. Teaching is a rewarding profession.
declaration	Used to refer to an official or formal statement, often made publicly. The president made a declaration of emergency in the affected area. She made a declaration of her candidacy for the upcoming election.
assertion	Used to describe a confident and forceful statement of fact or belief, often without evidence. Her assertion that she could handle the project alone was met with skepticism. The scientist made an assertion about the cause of the disease.
avowal	Used to describe an open and public statement or admission about something personal, often related to feelings or beliefs. His avowal of love took her by surprise. The avowal of his intentions was earnest and heartfelt.
affirmation	Used to refer to the act of confirming something to be true, often emotionally supportive or positive. The teacher's affirmation boosted the student's confidence. He sought affirmation from his peers that he made the right choice.

Examples of usage

His profession of love brought tears to her eyes.
The suspect's profession of innocence was met with skepticism.
Her profession of faith was a deeply personal moment.
The president's profession of the country's achievements was well-received.
The athlete's profession of dedication to the sport inspired many.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'professio', which means 'to declare publicly'.
It originally meant to declare one's beliefs or faith before becoming a priest.

Historical Origins

During the Middle Ages, professions were often linked to guilds, where craftsmen mastered specific skills.
The first universities in Europe were established in the 11th century to train professionals like doctors and lawyers.

Cultural Significance

Different cultures have various accepted professions; for example, shaman or healer roles are respected in many indigenous societies.
In many societies, one's profession can define social status and impact personal identity.

Modern Trends

The gig economy has changed the landscape, allowing freelance work to be considered a valid profession.
Technology has introduced new professions like data scientist and digital marketer, reflecting the digital age.

Psychology

Studies show that job satisfaction is closely linked to mental well-being, making professional fulfillment crucial.
People often derive their sense of purpose and identity from their profession, affecting their overall happiness.

Translations

Translations of the word "profession" in other languages:

🇵🇹 profissão

🇮🇳 पेशा

🇩🇪 Beruf

🇮🇩 profesi

🇺🇦 професія

🇵🇱 zawód

🇯🇵 職業（しょくぎょう）

🇫🇷 profession

🇪🇸 profesión

🇹🇷 meslek

🇰🇷 직업 (jigeop)

🇸🇦 مهنة

🇨🇿 povolání

🇸🇰 povolanie

🇨🇳 职业 (zhíyè)

🇸🇮 poklic

🇮🇸 starf

🇰🇿 кәсіп

🇬🇪 პროფესია

🇦🇿 peşə

🇲🇽 profesión

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,481, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.

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2478 runs
2479 border
2480 vital
2481 profession
2482 empty
2483 thoroughly
2484 arguments
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