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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com

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professional by

Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "professional by" is not correct and does not convey a clear meaning in written English.
It may be intended to describe a manner of professionalism, but it lacks context to be usable. Example: "She is known for her professional by nature approach to client relations."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

I'm an HR professional by trade.

News & Media

The Guardian

It looked almost professional, by lantern light at least...

News & Media

The New Yorker

It looked almost professional, by lantern light at least..

News & Media

The New Yorker

After apprenticing to a housepainter, he became an independent professional by the age of sixteen.

News & Media

The New Yorker

She was a professional by the age of twelve, an X Games champion at fourteen.

News & Media

The New Yorker

Clay turned professional by signing a six-year contract with 11 local white millionaires.

"He has tried to make the coroners service more professional by providing training for everyone, in particular coroners' officers.

News & Media

The Guardian

Hartman, who was older than many of his peers and professional by habit, excelled at both lead and supporting roles.

News & Media

The New Yorker

If you buy TaxCut's Premium+State+E-File edition, for example, you get one free session with a tax professional by phone or e-mail.

News & Media

The New York Times

The best boxing novels -- "Fat City," by Leonard Gardner, and "The Professional," by W. C. Heinz -- carry off both ends of the one-two with equal virtuosity.

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Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

That and its professional, by-the-books approach could help cement Meadow into the future of cannabis.

News & Media

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's professionalism, consider using phrases like "acting professionally", "with professional expertise", or specifying the area where they are professional, such as "a marketing professional".

Common error

Avoid using the phrase "professional by" as it is grammatically awkward. Instead, rephrase your sentence to use more common constructions such as "professional in", "as a professional", or "with a professional approach".

Antonio Rotolo, PhD - Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Source & Trust

83%

Authority and reliability

2.8/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Linguistic Context

The phrase "professional by" functions as a descriptor, attempting to modify a noun or verb by indicating a means or method related to being professional. According to Ludwig AI, this construction is grammatically questionable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

35%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "professional by" appears frequently in diverse sources, it is considered grammatically questionable. Ludwig AI's analysis indicates that the phrase seeks to describe a manner or means related to professionalism. For clearer communication, consider alternative phrases such as "in a professional manner", "as a professional", or specifying the area of expertise. While it appears in news, science, and wiki content, refining the phrasing will enhance clarity, particularly in formal contexts.

FAQs

How can I describe someone who consistently acts professionally?

You can say they act "in a professional manner", display "professional conduct", or have a "professional demeanor".

What's a better way to say someone is skilled and professional?

Consider saying they are a "skilled professional" or that they possess "professional expertise".

Is it correct to use "professional by trade"?

While the phrase appears, it is not grammatically ideal. A better phrasing is "a professional "by trade"" or stating their profession directly, such as "I am an HR professional".

Which is more correct, "professional as" or "professional by"?

Neither phrase is typically grammatically accurate. The phrase "as a professional" is generally a better choice.

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Source & Trust

83%

Authority and reliability

2.8/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Most frequent sentences: