What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
practitioner
Example
The doctor is a practitioner of medicine. [practitioner: noun]
Example
She is a skilled practitioner of yoga. [practitioner: noun]
Example
He has been a practitioner of law for over 20 years. [practitioner: noun]
professional
Example
She is a professional athlete who competes at the highest level. [professional: adjective]
Example
He is a professional photographer who takes stunning pictures. [professional: adjective]
Example
The company hired a team of professionals to handle the project. [professionals: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Professional is more commonly used than practitioner in everyday language, as it is a more versatile term that can be applied to a wide range of fields and positions. Practitioner is more commonly used in formal or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between practitioner and professional?
Professional is a more formal term that is often used in professional or business settings, while practitioner is more commonly used in academic or technical contexts.