Professionally
/prəˈfɛʃənəli/
Definitions
2 meaningsIn a way that conforms to the standards of a profession; competently and skillfully.
/prəˈfɛʃənəli/
In a manner that shows skill, competence, and good judgment
The lawyer presented his case professionally in court.
💡 Simply: Doing something really well, like you know what you're doing, and following the rules of the job.
👶 For kids: Doing something in a way that is good and correct for a job or a task.
More Examples
She acted professionally and calmly during the crisis.
They managed the project professionally, meeting all deadlines.
The company's website is designed professionally.
How It's Used
"He handled the negotiations professionally, despite the difficult circumstances."
"The team trained professionally, with a focus on discipline and strategy."
"The gallery displayed the artwork professionally, with careful lighting and arrangement."
In a way that is related to work and earning money as a job.
/prəˈfɛʃənəli/
For pay, as a means of livelihood
She plays tennis professionally.
💡 Simply: Doing something for a job and getting paid for it.
👶 For kids: Doing something for money as your job.
More Examples
He became a professional photographer.
He takes professional photographs for the team.
She writes professionally for a living.
How It's Used
"He started playing football professionally when he was 18."
"She decided to paint professionally and sell her artwork."
"The author now writes professionally, earning a living from his books."
Idioms & expressions
professional development
Activities undertaken to improve a person's skills, knowledge, and competence as a professional.
"The company provides funding for employees' professional development."
From the adjective 'professional,' which comes from the Latin 'professio' (a public declaration) and later the French 'professionnel,' implying skill and adherence to ethical standards in a particular field.
The use of 'professionally' has consistently reflected societal expectations of competence and ethical conduct, evolving alongside the development of specialized fields and industries.
Memory tip
Think of a surgeon operating with precision; that's doing something professionally.