ENGLISH
REFERENCE

professionally

adv. manner
B1 Intermediate US //pɹəˈfɛʃənəɫi// UK //pɹəfˈɛʃənəli// pro·fes·sion·al·ly

adv. to do something in a way that shows you have the right skills and training for a job. It also means doing something as your main job rather than just for fun.

adv. in a manner that conforms to the standards or expectations of a specific occupation; alternatively, as a primary vocation rather than an amateur pursuit.


SIMPLE

She always handles difficult customers very professionally.

CONTEXTUAL

The website was professionally designed to ensure it looks trustworthy to potential clients.

COMPLEX

Although he had played the guitar for years as a hobby, he only began performing professionally after his debut album received unexpected critical acclaim from national reviewers.

Origin

From professional + -ly.

Usage

Typically placed after the verb or at the end of the clause to describe how an action is performed.

Pitfall

He is a professionally doctorHe is a professional doctorLearners often confuse the adverb 'professionally' with the adjective 'professional' when modifying a noun.

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