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

amateur hour, amateur night, amateurish

Formal and Informal Expressions of amateur

In different contexts, you can replace 'amateur' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'nonprofessional' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'rookie, newbie' is a commonplace synonym.

amateur: Explore its Definition & Usage

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

amateur hour
a situation or event characterized by incompetence or lack of professionalism
Example
The company's handling of the crisis was amateur hour.
amateur night
a night when amateurs perform, especially in a theater or club
Example
The comedy club has an amateur night every Wednesday.
amateurish
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.