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
This shows professionalism and keeps things on track.
—Expert Panel®, Forbes, 18 Feb. 2025
The extent of professionalism means that is no longer viable, but many footballers retain an interest in cricket.
—Michael Cox, The Athletic, 18 Feb. 2025
Thompson has been the Hartman-like glue for innumerable casts over his two-plus decades on the show, his easy professionalism and charisma always being an invaluable asset.
—Dennis Perkins, EW.com, 16 Feb. 2025
Transitioning from student life to the professional world is a big step, and, understandably, office politics can feel overwhelming ‒ especially in human resources, where professionalism and impartiality are expected at a higher level.
—Johnny C. Taylor Jr., USA TODAY, 12 Feb. 2025
See All Example Sentences for professionalism
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Expert Panel®, Forbes, 18 Feb. 2025
The extent of professionalism means that is no longer viable, but many footballers retain an interest in cricket.
—Michael Cox, The Athletic, 18 Feb. 2025
Thompson has been the Hartman-like glue for innumerable casts over his two-plus decades on the show, his easy professionalism and charisma always being an invaluable asset.
—Dennis Perkins, EW.com, 16 Feb. 2025
Transitioning from student life to the professional world is a big step, and, understandably, office politics can feel overwhelming ‒ especially in human resources, where professionalism and impartiality are expected at a higher level.
—Johnny C. Taylor Jr., USA TODAY, 12 Feb. 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 28 Feb. 2025.
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