Professional: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe someone who is in a specific profession, often implying formal training and official recognition. This term is widely used in employment and workplace settings.

• She is a professional marketer with over 10 years of experience.
• We hired a professional photographer for our wedding.

Refers to a person with comprehensive and authoritative knowledge or skill in a particular area. Typically used when emphasizing a high level of mastery or specialization.

• John is an expert in cybersecurity.
• The museum hired an expert to authenticate the painting.

Describes someone who has specific abilities or expertise, usually as a result of training or practice. Used generally across many fields and tasks.

• He is skilled at woodworking.
• We need skilled technicians to repair this equipment.

Indicates that someone has the necessary skills, education, or certifications to perform a particular job or task. Often used in job descriptions and qualifications.

• She is a qualified nurse with a degree in healthcare.
• Only qualified candidates should apply for this position.

The 'professional' can also describe behavior or qualities that are considered appropriate in a workplace setting or other formal situations.

• He maintained a professional demeanor during the meeting
• The report was written in a very professional manner

A 'specialist' is someone who has extensive knowledge or skills in a particular area of a profession or field of study. This term is often used to highlight someone's focus and expertise in a specific subject.

• She is a specialist in pediatric medicine
• They consulted a cybersecurity specialist to improve their data protection

The term 'professionalist' is rarely used in modern English. It may occasionally refer to someone who adheres strictly to professional standards or ideals, but it is considered somewhat archaic and rarely appears in contemporary writing.

• In old texts, you might find sentences like, 'He was a true professionalist, dedicated to his craft
• '

This word is used to describe someone who is highly competent or skilled in a particular activity, often viewed with respect and authority.

• The surgeon is known for his professional demeanor and exceptional skills.
• She handled the project with a professional attitude.

This word is used to describe someone who is trained or skilled in sports or other physical activities.

• The Olympics are the ultimate goal for any aspiring athlete.
• She is a dedicated athlete, training every day for the marathon.

This word is used to describe someone who engages in a sport or game. It can be applied to both recreational and professional participants.

• He is a talented chess player with many tournament wins.
• On the soccer field, each player has a specific role.

This word is used to describe someone who is engaged in a competition, often in a business or sports setting.

• As a competitor in the market, they are always looking for ways to improve their products.
• He is a fierce competitor on the basketball court.