pro
n. · adj. · prep.-
1 an advantage (n.) B1 Intermediatea reason to do something or a positive point about a choice.
an argument or factor in favor of a particular action or decision, typically paired with 'con'.
ExampleWe made a list of the pros and cons before deciding to move to a new city.
ExampleThe committee spent hours weighing every pro against the potential long-term risks before approving the merger.
UsageAlmost always used in the plural phrase 'pros and cons'.
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2 a professional (n.) B2 Upper Intermediate Informalsomeone who is very good at their job or plays a sport for money.
a person who engages in a specific activity, especially a sport or technical craft, as a main paid occupation.
ExampleIf you want the plumbing fixed correctly, you should hire a pro.
ExampleEven among seasoned pros, the pressure of a live television broadcast can lead to uncharacteristic mistakes.
Teacher's tipWhile 'pro' is common in speech, 'professional' is preferred in formal business writing.
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3 professional (adj.) B2 Upper Intermediate Informal Sportrelating to a job that requires special training or playing sport for money.
relating to or belonging to a profession; often used to distinguish paid status from amateur status.
ExampleHe decided to turn pro after winning the national amateur championship.
ExampleThe transition to a pro career requires a level of discipline that many young athletes find overwhelming at first.
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4 in favor of (prep.) B2 Upper Intermediatesupporting an idea or being on the side of a specific choice.
indicating support for or alignment with a specific principle, policy, or movement.
ExampleAre you pro or anti the new school uniform policy?
ExampleThe senator remained staunchly pro-reform throughout the debate, despite significant pressure from lobbyists.
UsageOften used as a prefix with a hyphen, but can stand alone in informal questions.