German Conversation · Level 19
90 words
German word
Amateur
Pronunciation
IPA/amaˈtøːɐ̯/
Meaning
- masculine nounamateur
Example
In diesem Kurs sind viele Amateure.
There are many amateurs in this course.
More examples
In Sachen Fotografie ist er ein Amateur.
When it comes to photography, he is an amateur.
Core concept
A hobbyist taking part in an activity outside the professional circuit, whether skilled or still learning.
Common phrases
als Amateur tätig
working as an amateur
Amateurverein
amateur club
Similar words
Anfänger: A learner at the early stage of an activity, with little experience or skill.
Neuling: A newcomer who has only recently begun participating and is still getting accustomed to things.
Hobbyspieler: A recreational player who takes part for enjoyment rather than as a profession.
Definition in German
Jemand, der eine Tätigkeit nicht beruflich, sondern aus Hobby oder Interesse ausübt.
Word origin
"Amateur" entered German through French from Latin "amator", meaning a lover or enthusiast, and came to denote a nonprofessional practitioner.
Usage tips
- German "Amateur" can suggest limited professional experience in some contexts, so "Enthusiast" or "Hobbyist" may sound more clearly positive when that distinction matters.
Other meanings
- enthusiastnoun
Opposites
- Profiprofessionalnoun
Related words
- Amateurinfemale amateurnoun
- amateurhaftamateurishadjective
- Amateurismusamateurismnoun