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
Because Zainab Johnson has such a masterful sense of poise, the initial impression of her comedy is of high-polish professionalism.
—Kathryn Vanarendonk, Vulture, 15 Sep. 2025
The right stack of modern tools makes a one-person shop operate with the professionalism of a full back office.
—Yurii Zinchenko, Forbes.com, 15 Sep. 2025
As many young workers struggle with punctuality and deadlines, Gomez’s habits reflect professionalism, preparation, and respect.
—Jessica Coacci, Fortune, 12 Sep. 2025
Boutte was praised by wide receivers coach Todd Downing prior to Week 1 for his professionalism this offseason.
—Doug Kyed, Boston Herald, 8 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for professionalism
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Kathryn Vanarendonk, Vulture, 15 Sep. 2025
The right stack of modern tools makes a one-person shop operate with the professionalism of a full back office.
—Yurii Zinchenko, Forbes.com, 15 Sep. 2025
As many young workers struggle with punctuality and deadlines, Gomez’s habits reflect professionalism, preparation, and respect.
—Jessica Coacci, Fortune, 12 Sep. 2025
Boutte was praised by wide receivers coach Todd Downing prior to Week 1 for his professionalism this offseason.
—Doug Kyed, Boston Herald, 8 Sep. 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 17 Sep. 2025.
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