DILETTANTISM Synonyms: 28 Similar and Opposite Words

dilettantism

noun

Definition of dilettantism

as in amateurism

a lack of the level of skill associated with an expert or professional no charge of dilettantism could ever be leveled at English physicist Henry Cavendish, whose immense wealth allowed him to devote his life to scientific pursuits

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Recent Examples of Synonyms for dilettantism

Noun

But Wright’s case is also illustrating why the NCAA’s argument about amateurism is becoming harder to square with the economics of the modern college engine.

— Joshua Hong, Fortune, 29 Aug. 2026
What were once basic tenets — amateurism, transfers, years of eligibility — have been upended.

— Seth Emerson, New York Times, 21 Aug. 2026

Definition of amateurism

Noun

The constant delay-of-game calls, false starts and inability to get lined up are a special level of alarming for a quarterback who entered the NFL 10 years ago.

— Jason Lloyd, New York Times, 14 Sep. 2026
Among the many glaring issues coming out of the opener, the offense’s inability to sustain drives was particularly galling.

— ABC News, ABC News, 14 Sep. 2026

Definition of inability

Noun

At the start of the 1986-87 season, a combination of previous boardroom incompetence and broader economics saw Middlesbrough not just in the Third Division, but with their ground, Ayresome Park, padlocked.

— Michael Walker, New York Times, 15 Sep. 2026
Whereas Putin takes extravagant risks on the international stage but is loath to hold his associates accountable for incompetence, Xi is just the opposite.

— Jonathan A. Czin, The Atlantic, 14 Sep. 2026

Definition of incompetence

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Browse Nearby Words

dilettantish

dilettantism

diligence

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“Dilettantism.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/dilettantism. Accessed 19 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of dilettantism

noun

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