Word
professed
Phoneticspro·fessed, stress on the second syllable
US/pɹəˈfɛst/
UK/pɹəfˈɛst/
Definition
adj. describing a belief or feeling that someone says they have, even if it might not be true. You use this when someone claims something publicly.
adj. claimed or asserted openly, often in a way that implies the speaker's doubt about the sincerity of the claim. Typically used attributively before a noun.
Examples
“He repeated his professed love for the country.”
“Despite her professed interest in environmental issues, she rarely participated in the local recycling initiatives.”
“The diplomat's professed neutrality was called into question when leaked documents revealed a series of private meetings with one of the primary combatants.”
Examples
simple
“He repeated his professed love for the country.”
contextual
“Despite her professed interest in environmental issues, she rarely participated in the local recycling initiatives.”
complex
“The diplomat's professed neutrality was called into question when leaked documents revealed a series of private meetings with one of the primary combatants.”
Usage
Often used to signal skepticism; typically precedes the noun it modifies.
Real-World Examples
“New Glenn is therefore offline at least until the end of 2026, and despite the company’s professed optimism about returning to flight rapidly, probably into the early months of 2027.” “On one occasion, Schiller alleged that the dog professed its Catholic faith to a priest.” - Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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