Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
professional know how
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "professional know how" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the specialized knowledge or skills that a person possesses in a professional context. Example: "Her professional know how in project management has greatly contributed to the success of our team."
✓ Grammatically correct
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
58 human-written examples
A professional knows how to shave the chest to avoid razor burn and/or irritation.
Wiki
P.R. professionals know how busy magazine editors are these days.
News & Media
But intelligence committee professionals know how to produce reports that compromise few secrets.
News & Media
By The New Yorker April 6, 2016 P.R. professionals know how busy magazine editors are these days.
News & Media
Information technology professionals know how to prevent resource-reducing applets from loading automatically by editing the Windows Registry, but for many others this can be a perilous endeavor because a single false step can corrupt a hard drive.
News & Media
The professionals know how to count, and what to look for.
News & Media
Over-, and under-design of artificial lift installations happens in the industry very often and professionals know how to deal with them.
Only professionals know how to do this.
Wiki
Golf professionals know how to teach a golf swing, that's why they are professionals.
Wiki
Professionals know how to get great results at the 8-frames-a-second or more of high-end SLRs, but if you're starting out, you might want to dial it back a little.
Wiki
I asked how a couple of young urban professionals knew how to get across the mountains.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When emphasizing practical skills, use "professional know how" to highlight hands-on experience and the ability to apply knowledge effectively.
Common error
Avoid using "professional know how" when simpler terms like "expertise" or "skills" would be clearer and more accessible to a broader audience.
Source & Trust
60%
Authority and reliability
3.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "professional know how" functions as a noun phrase, typically referring to the specialized knowledge and practical skills possessed by someone in a professional field. It emphasizes the application of knowledge rather than just theoretical understanding.
Frequent in
Science
0%
News & Media
0%
Formal & Business
0%
Less common in
Science
0%
News & Media
0%
Formal & Business
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "professional know how" refers to the practical expertise and skills an individual possesses in a professional context. While grammatically correct, it's important to consider context and clarity when using this phrase. As Ludwig AI highlights, simpler alternatives such as "expertise" or "skills" might be more accessible to a wider audience. When emphasizing hands-on experience and the ability to apply knowledge effectively, "professional know how" is particularly useful. However, overuse or reliance on technical jargon should be avoided to ensure clear and effective communication.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
professional expertise
Replaces "know how" with "expertise", focusing on skilled knowledge.
professional skill set
Emphasizes the range of skills a professional possesses.
professional competence
Highlights the ability to perform a job effectively.
technical proficiency
Focuses on the technical skills and knowledge.
specialized knowledge
Highlights the specific knowledge a professional has.
practical experience
Focuses on real-world experience rather than theoretical knowledge.
applied skills
Emphasizes the ability to use skills effectively.
mastery of the craft
Indicates a high level of skill and expertise.
professional acumen
Stresses the sharpness and quickness of intellect in a professional setting.
job-specific knowledge
Highlights knowledge directly relevant to a particular job or role.
FAQs
How can I use "professional know how" in a sentence?
You might say, "Her /professional know how/ was essential to the project's success", indicating that her skills and expertise were key to achieving the project goals.
What are some alternatives to "professional know how"?
Consider using alternatives such as "professional expertise", "specialized knowledge", or "practical experience" depending on the specific context.
Is it more appropriate to say "professional know how" or "expertise"?
While both terms relate to competence, "expertise" generally refers to a high level of skill or knowledge, while "professional know how" emphasizes the practical application of that knowledge. Choose the term that best fits the specific aspect you want to highlight.
What's the difference between "professional know how" and "technical skills"?
"Technical skills" refer to specific abilities related to a particular technology or field, while "professional know how" encompasses a broader range of skills, including soft skills and the ability to apply knowledge effectively in a professional setting. Both "technical skills" and "professional know how" are often necessary.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
60%
Authority and reliability
3.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested