German word

professionell

Pronunciation

IPA/pʁofɛsi̯oˈnɛl/

Meaning

  • adjectiveprofessional

Example

Sein Spiel ist professionell.

His play is professional.

Illustration for professionell (professional)

More examples

Im Gespräch wirkte er professionell.

During the conversation, he appeared professional.

Core concept

A skilled approach that turns specialist knowledge into careful, routine action.

Common phrases

  • professionell auftreten

    behave professionally

  • professionell wirken

    appear professional

  • professionell aussehen

    look professional

Similar words

kompetent: Equipped with the knowledge and ability to deal with matters properly.
souverän: Confidently handling situations in a calm and assured manner.
sachkundig: Possessing specialized knowledge for precise judgments and explanations.
zuverlässig: Reliable in carrying out work and keeping promises.

Definition in German

Eine Art zu handeln, die Fachwissen, Sorgfalt und routinierte Sicherheit erkennen lässt.

Word origin

The German adjective is a borrowing of French professionnel, which ultimately derives from Latin professio for a public declaration or an occupation.

Usage tips

  • Before a noun, professionell takes the normal German adjective ending, as in "ein professionelles Spiel" and "eine professionelle Behandlung".

Other meanings

  • skilledadjective

Opposites

  • unprofessionellunprofessionaladjective
  • laienhaftamateurishadjective

Related words

  • Professionalitätprofessionalismnoun
  • professionalisierenprofessionalizeverb

Word lists with this word