professionalism
noun
pro·fes·sion·al·ism
prə-ˈfesh-nə-ˌli-zəm 
-ˈfe-shə-nə-ˌli-
1
: the conduct, aims, or qualities that characterize or mark a profession or a professional person
2
: the following of a profession (such as athletics) for gain or livelihood
Examples of professionalism in a Sentence
For writers such as Alexander Pope and Samuel Johnson, struggling in the transition from the age of patronage to that of Grub Street professionalism, Shakespeare offered not only a body of poetic invention but also an inspirational career trajectory.
—
Jonathan Bate, Harper's, April 2007
In Washington, careerism has so trumped professionalism among political journalists as to render Alterman's ethical concerns almost quaint.
—Gene Lyons, Harper's, October 2003
It is difficult not to contrast the professionalism of modestly paid firefighters and police doing their duty on September 11 with the secretive … behavior of six- and seven-figure accountants, lawyers, CEOs, bankers, and financial analysts who failed at their duty with Enron.
—Bruce Nussbaum, Business Week, 28 Jan. 2002
A high level of professionalism is expected when working with clients.
She is highly respected for her professionalism.
Jonathan Bate, Harper's, April 2007
In Washington, careerism has so trumped professionalism among political journalists as to render Alterman's ethical concerns almost quaint.
—Gene Lyons, Harper's, October 2003
It is difficult not to contrast the professionalism of modestly paid firefighters and police doing their duty on September 11 with the secretive … behavior of six- and seven-figure accountants, lawyers, CEOs, bankers, and financial analysts who failed at their duty with Enron.
—Bruce Nussbaum, Business Week, 28 Jan. 2002
A high level of professionalism is expected when working with clients.
She is highly respected for her professionalism.
Recent Examples on the Web
From tickets and programs to backdrops, costumes, and posters, Freddie brings a level of creativity and professionalism rarely seen in a high school setting.
—Heide Janssen, Orange County Register, 16 Mar. 2025
Pandemonium Wrestling sources report that Hudson has been a pleasure to work with, expressing positive sentiments about his professionalism.
—Faisal Kutty, Newsweek, 11 Mar. 2025
Quizzed about his personal views on Stoltenberg’s versatile talent, Gulliksen points to his acute professionalism in preparing for meetings, conferences or public appearances, and his special relationship with words to deliver a speech in the least conflictual way.
—Annika Pham, Variety, 7 Mar. 2025
Throughout the ordeal, Davenport says the pilot and crew were praised for their transparency and professionalism.
—Ashley Vega, People.com, 7 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for professionalism
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Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
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Heide Janssen, Orange County Register, 16 Mar. 2025
Pandemonium Wrestling sources report that Hudson has been a pleasure to work with, expressing positive sentiments about his professionalism.
—Faisal Kutty, Newsweek, 11 Mar. 2025
Quizzed about his personal views on Stoltenberg’s versatile talent, Gulliksen points to his acute professionalism in preparing for meetings, conferences or public appearances, and his special relationship with words to deliver a speech in the least conflictual way.
—Annika Pham, Variety, 7 Mar. 2025
Throughout the ordeal, Davenport says the pilot and crew were praised for their transparency and professionalism.
—Ashley Vega, People.com, 7 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for professionalism
Cite this Entry
“Professionalism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/professionalism. Accessed 23 Mar. 2025.
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