noun

professionalism

pruh-FEH-shuh-nuh-lih-zuhm

noun

The skill, conduct, and standards expected of someone in a profession — reliability, fairness, and good judgment.

"The nurse handled the emergency with real professionalism, staying calm the whole time."

"Clients notice professionalism in small things, like replying to emails on time."

The use of paid, trained practitioners rather than amateurs, especially in sport.

"The league's move toward professionalism changed how players trained and got paid."

How to Use Professionalism

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishActing like a true professional — competent, reliable, and appropriate for the job.

Common pairings

a high level of professionalism lack of professionalism act with professionalism

professionalisms plural

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Can you complete this real example?

The nurse handled the emergency with real _____, staying calm the whole time.

Built from "professional" plus the suffix "-ism," which turns a quality into an abstract noun.

professionality professionalness professionalship

realism idealism socialism vandalism capitalism liberalism surrealism journalism materialism cannibalism nationalism imperialism

professionality professionalness professionalship