amateur

[ˈæmətər]

amateur Definition

  • 1a person who engages in a pursuit, especially a sport, on an unpaid basis
  • 2a person who is not competent or skilled in a particular activity

Using amateur: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "amateur" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    He's just an amateur photographer.

  • Example

    She's an amateur at playing the piano.

  • Example

    The team is made up of both amateurs and professionals.

  • Example

    I'm just an amateur when it comes to cooking.

amateur Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for amateur

Antonyms for amateur

Phrases with amateur

  • a situation or event characterized by incompetence or lack of professionalism

    Example

    The company's handling of the crisis was amateur hour.

  • a night when amateurs perform, especially in a theater or club

    Example

    The comedy club has an amateur night every Wednesday.

  • lacking the skill or expertise of a professional

    Example

    The report was full of amateurish mistakes.

Origins of amateur

from French 'amateur', from Latin 'amator' meaning 'lover'

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Summary: amateur in Brief

An 'amateur' [ˈæmətər] is someone who engages in a pursuit, especially a sport, on an unpaid basis. It can also refer to someone who is not competent or skilled in a particular activity. Examples include 'He's just an amateur photographer' and 'I'm just an amateur when it comes to cooking.' Phrases like 'amateur hour' and 'amateurish' denote incompetence or lack of professionalism.

How do native speakers use this expression?