# amateurish

/ˈæməˌtʃɝɪʃ/ (US) · /ˈæmətəɹɪʃ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/amateurish
Updated: 2026-10-19

## Definition

done badly or carelessly, like work by a beginner. You use it when you expect better quality from someone.

For teachers: showing a lack of skill, care, or professionalism expected of trained work. Often used to criticize performance, craftsmanship, or presentation.

## Examples

- His amateurish painting job leaves brush marks everywhere.
- The restaurant's website looks amateurish, with blurry photos and broken links that drive customers away.
- Though the proposal contained sound ideas, its amateurish formatting and inconsistent data undermined its credibility with the investors.

## Usage notes

- Typically placed before the noun it modifies; also follows linking verbs such as 'look' or 'seem'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.