Amateur

Definition

Amateur can refer to a person who engages in an activity or field out of interest or passion rather than as a professional. It also refers to someone who may lack expertise in a particular field, sometimes used to imply inexperience or unskilled work.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈæmətʃər/, /ˈæmətər/
• Respelling: AM-uh-chur, AM-uh-tur

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈæmətə/, /ˈæmətjʊər/
• Respelling: AM-uh-tuh, AM-uh-tyoor

Etymology

The word "amateur" originates from the French "amateur," meaning "lover of," which is derived from the Latin "amator," meaning "lover," from "amare," meaning "to love." Initially, it described someone pursuing an activity out of love or passion rather than as a profession.

Derivatives

• Amateurish (adjective)
• Amateurism (noun)
• Amateurishly (adverb)
• Amateurship (noun)
• Amateurishness (noun)

Synonyms

• Nonprofessional
• Hobbyist
• Enthusiast

Antonyms

• Professional
• Expert
• Specialist

Usage

The noun "amateur" is commonly used to describe someone who participates in an activity for pleasure rather than financial gain, as in "She is an amateur painter." As an adjective, it can describe something done by a nonprofessional, such as "The amateur performance was impressive." It can also imply a lack of expertise or skill, as in "His amateur approach to the task was evident."

Related Terms

• Hobby: An activity done regularly in one's leisure time for pleasure.
• Dilettante: A person who cultivates an area of interest, such as the arts, without real commitment or knowledge.
• Novice: A person new to or inexperienced in a field or situation.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A person who engages in an activity for pleasure rather than for financial gain: Refers to someone participating in a field as a pastime or for personal enjoyment.
  • Example: "He is an amateur musician who performs only at local events."
• Someone lacking expertise in a particular field: Describes a person who may lack the skill or experience of a professional.
  • Example: "The project was handled by an amateur, and it showed in the results."

Adjective

• Relating to or characteristic of an amateur; nonprofessional: Used to describe work or activities done without professional expertise or as a hobby.
  • Example: "The amateur photography exhibit displayed a range of styles and talent levels."
• Lacking skill or finesse: Sometimes used to describe a lack of polish or professionalism.
  • Example: "The repairs were completed in an amateur manner."