unprofessional

adjective

un·​pro·​fes·​sion·​al ˌən-prə-ˈfesh-nəl How to pronounce unprofessional (audio)
-ˈfe-shə-nᵊl
: not exhibiting a courteous, conscientious, or generally businesslike manner in the workplace : not professional
unprofessional attire
unprofessional comments

Examples of unprofessional in a Sentence

an unprofessional carelessness about the accuracy of the news story
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
That is about as unprofessional as golfers get on the PGA Tour. Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 21 Mar. 2025 All work gets done on the beach The digital nomad stereotype suggests unprofessional setups and casual work environments. Jodie Cook, Forbes, 21 Mar. 2025 Later, Lilian would call a friend whose father was a doctor to confirm that the question was unusual or at least unprofessional. Yiyun Li, The New Yorker, 9 Mar. 2025 According to a survey of BHG real estate agents, 80% reported some projects do not add significant value to a home compared to their cost, including DIY projects with subpar craftsmanship or unprofessional installation. Aksha Mittapalli, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for unprofessional

Word History

First Known Use

1770, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unprofessional was in 1770

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Unprofessional.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unprofessional. Accessed 2 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

unprofessional

adjective
un·​pro·​fes·​sion·​al
ˌən-prə-ˈfesh-nəl,
-ən-ᵊl
: not professional
especially : not up to the standards of one's profession
unprofessionally
adverb
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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