A professional is an individual who possesses specialised knowledge, skills, and expertise in a particular field or occupation. Professionals typically undergo formal education, training, and certification to acquire the necessary qualifications and credentials in their chosen profession. They are expected to adhere to ethical standards and codes of conduct relevant to their profession and to maintain a commitment to ongoing learning and professional development. Professionals often provide services to clients, customers, or organisations, and they may be subject to regulatory oversight or licensure requirements to ensure competency and accountability in their practice. Examples of professionals include doctors, lawyers, engineers, teachers, accountants, and architects, among others.
- An authority qualified to teach apprentices.
- A person engaged in one of the learned professions.
- An athlete who plays for pay.
- Of or relating to a profession.
- Of or relating to or suitable as a profession.
- Engaged in a profession or engaging in as a profession or means of livelihood.
- Characteristic of or befitting a profession or one engaged in a profession.
- Engaged in by members of a profession.
The term referring to members of those professions having a recognized status based upon acquiring professional knowledge through prolonged study. Examples of such professions include accountancy, actuarial computation, architecture, dentistry, engineering, law, medicine, nursing, pharmacy, the sciences (e.g., biology, chemistry, and physics, and teaching). To be a professional, a person must not only be qualified but must also be involved in discharging corresponding professional duties.
One who is engaged in one of the learned professions and/or who makes it a permanent career. Characterized by or conforming to the technical or ethical standards of a profession. Exhibiting a courteous, conscientious, and generally businesslike manner in the workplace. Following a line of conduct as though it were a profession.
Editor’s Note: Unfortunately, the term tends to be used to apply to anyone who performs or behaves as might be expected according to common standards.
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This glossary post was last updated: 29th March, 2024.
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