as a profession

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as a profession" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to explain someone's occupation or career. For example, "She works as a professional chef."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Architecture is established as a profession.

The New York Times - Arts

"It unnerves us, as a profession.

The New Yorker

That's what defines us as a profession.

The New York Times

Essex is clearly stupid as a profession.

The Guardian - Opinion

He chose carpentry as a profession.

The New York Times

What is Romney saying there, about politics as a profession?

The New Yorker

The youth turned first to surveying as a profession.

Encyclopedia Britannica

What problems do teachers face as a profession?

The New York Times

Did we, as a profession, have our timing wrong?

The New York Times

Teaching is a vocation as well as a profession.

The Guardian - Opinion

"The allure of teaching as a profession just isn't there.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as a profession" to clearly indicate that you are discussing a field from the perspective of employment, skill, and vocational engagement. For example, "He chose carpentry as a profession."

Common error

Avoid using "as a profession" when discussing hobbies or personal interests. Ensure the context relates to employment or career paths. For example, don't say "I enjoy painting as a profession" if painting is just a hobby.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as a profession" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs or clauses to indicate the context in which an activity or skill is being considered – namely, from the perspective of a career or occupation. Ludwig shows numerous examples across diverse fields where this phrase clarifies that something is not merely a hobby, but a vocation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

24%

Encyclopedias

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as a profession" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to contextualize activities or skills within the realm of career and vocational engagement. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically sound and finds frequent application across various sources, from news media and encyclopedias to scientific publications. While its register is generally neutral, it leans toward formal, particularly in academic and business settings. By understanding its function and purpose, writers can effectively use this phrase to convey specific nuances related to the professional sphere. Ludwig AI confirms the correctness and broad applicability of this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

As an occupation

Directly refers to the activity someone engages in to earn a living.

In a professional role

Similar to "in a professional capacity", this emphasizes the specific responsibilities held.

In a professional capacity

Focuses on the role or function performed within a work environment, highlighting the skills applied.

Professionally speaking

Highlights that the following statement is based on professional knowledge or experience.

From a career standpoint

Emphasizes the viewpoint of someone considering long-term career implications.

As a career choice

Highlights the decision to pursue something as a long-term vocation.

In one's line of work

Refers to activities or situations that are typical of someone's job.

Within the professional sphere

Situates the activity within the broader context of organized professions.

For professional purposes

Specifies that an activity is being done in order to achieve a work-related goal.

In the world of work

Broadly situates an activity within the context of employment.

FAQs

How can I use "as a profession" in a sentence?

Use "as a profession" to specify that an activity or skill is being considered from the perspective of a career or occupation. For example, "She views teaching as a profession, not just a job".

What are some alternatives to saying "as a profession"?

You can use phrases like "in a professional capacity", "as an occupation", or "from a career standpoint" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "I practice medicine as a profession"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. It means that you engage in the practice of medicine as your job or career. Other options could be "I work in medicine in a professional capacity".

What's the difference between "as a profession" and "professionally"?

"As a profession" describes something being considered as a career or occupation, while "professionally" describes doing something with the skill and standards expected of a professional. For example, "He works as a chef "as a profession"" versus "He cooks professionally".