noun

amateur

A-muh-tuh

noun

Someone who takes part in an activity, sport, or art for enjoyment rather than as a paid profession.

"She's a serious amateur photographer who sells prints on the side."

"The tournament is open to amateurs as well as professionals."

Someone who lacks skill or experience at something; a novice.

"Only an amateur would forget to back up the files before the update."

adj

Not done professionally; carried out by non-professionals.

"The film was shot on amateur equipment but still looked polished."

How to Use Amateur

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishSomeone who does something for the love of it rather than for money, or (informally) someone who's just not very good at it.

Common mistake

Don't confuse the neutral sense ("does it for fun, unpaid") with the insulting sense ("incompetent") — context decides which one you mean.

Easily confused with

amateurish →

Common pairings

amateur photographer amateur hour strictly amateur talented amateur

more amateur comparative, amateurs plural, most amateur superlative

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.

Can you complete this real example?

She's a serious _____ photographer who sells prints on the side.

From French amateur, "lover [of something]", from Latin amare, "to love".

fleur voyeur masseur liqueur Pasteur Lafleur saboteur monsieur grandeur chauffeur connoisseur provocateur