Definition

A person who does not have professional training or qualifications in a particular field.

Example

As a nonprofessional, she enjoyed painting as a hobby rather than a career.

Conversation

I saw your friend at the game last night; he seemed a bit nonprofessional on the field.

Yeah, he's just starting out and doesn't have much experience yet.

I get that, but it was still surprising to see someone so nonprofessional in a competitive match.

True, but everyone has to start somewhere, right?

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Nonprofessional → It is formed from "non-" (meaning not) and "professional" (from Latin "professio" meaning a declaration or public acknowledgment of a profession). The word "nonprofessional" means not relating to or characteristic of a profession, or someone who is not a trained or qualified professional.

Memory Tip

Think of 'non-' meaning 'not' and 'professional' referring to someone who is trained in a field. This helps you remember that 'nonprofessional' describes someone who is not trained or qualified in a profession.

Visually Confused Words