as in professional
having or showing qualities that are considered good in business
His businesslike approach to the dispute was very helpful. a businesslike manner
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Recent Examples of businesslike
Conversely, the Oilers had a businesslike finish to their campaign despite adverse circumstances, specifically the absences of Draisaitl and Hyman.
—
Andrew Knoll,
Oc Register,
19 Apr. 2026
The atmosphere was hushed and businesslike; this was a routine pretrial hearing, and only a few other spectators joined me in the gallery.
—
Patrick Radden Keefe,
New Yorker,
13 Apr. 2026
The relative wrote back and, in an almost businesslike tone, informed her that there was no space left at the Maine cemetery.
—
Natalia Sánchez Loayza,
Scientific American,
13 Mar. 2026
Eva is a complex character, flinty and businesslike, deadly serious about her mission and willing to make ethical compromises to move it forward.
—
David Rooney,
HollywoodReporter,
10 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for businesslike
Andrew Knoll,
Oc Register,
19 Apr. 2026
The atmosphere was hushed and businesslike; this was a routine pretrial hearing, and only a few other spectators joined me in the gallery.
—
Patrick Radden Keefe,
New Yorker,
13 Apr. 2026
The relative wrote back and, in an almost businesslike tone, informed her that there was no space left at the Maine cemetery.
—
Natalia Sánchez Loayza,
Scientific American,
13 Mar. 2026
Eva is a complex character, flinty and businesslike, deadly serious about her mission and willing to make ethical compromises to move it forward.
—
David Rooney,
HollywoodReporter,
10 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for businesslike
Recent Examples of Synonyms for businesslike
Adjective
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With free childcare provided, women were able to get assistance with resumes, hair and makeup help from Ulta Beauty, as well as a complementary professional headshot.
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The sale of the business to Diageo in 2021—reported to be in the region of 70 million pounds though never officially disclosed—was a professional high point.
Adjective
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Aquarius January 20 – February 18 When opinions clash, lead with practical care.
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As a practical example, the Knicks would love to bring Shamet back to the team next season.
Adjective
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All were polite and responsive.
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He has been adored, sanitized, revived, pathologized, sentimentalized, and combed for polite company.
Adjective
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What Research Shows About Cancer in Dogs While there is no evidence that turkey tail shrinks tumors, the mushroom has drawn real scientific interest as a complementary therapy for serious illness.
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The new guidance was heavily criticized by health groups, which argued the decision could sow confusion and leave children vulnerable to serious disease.
Cite this Entry
“Businesslike.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/businesslike. Accessed 29 Jun. 2026.
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