some semblance of professionalism

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "some semblance of professionalism" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where there is a minimal or partial level of professionalism present, often in contexts where professionalism is expected but lacking. Example: "Despite the chaos of the event, the team managed to maintain some semblance of professionalism in their interactions with the guests."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Achieving some semblance of professionalism once there is another.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

And like the 28 million other Americans who work from home at least part of the time (a figure provided by the Dieringer Research Group in Wisconsin), I am trying to maintain a semblance of professionalism here.

The New York Times

We've watched as Carrie has degraded herself, sacrificed any semblance of professionalism, and actively lied about the assassination of the vice-president.

Huffington Post

Some semblance of spring had momentarily arrived.

The New York Times

From begging for some semblance of justice?

The Guardian - Opinion

Some semblance of orderly life worked wonders.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But I also wanted some semblance of tradition.

The New York Times

He gains some semblance of peace and spirituality.

The New York Times - Books

I wish his family strength and some semblance of peace".

The New York Times

"We hope the settlement constitutes some semblance of justice".

The New York Times

Find some semblance of rhythm in the strikes!

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "some semblance of professionalism", consider the context and whether a stronger, more definitive statement about professionalism is appropriate. If the situation truly reflects a limited or superficial display of professionalism, the phrase is suitable.

Common error

Avoid using "some semblance of professionalism" when the situation actually demonstrates a high degree of professional conduct. Choose a more affirmative phrase to accurately reflect the level of professionalism present.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "some semblance of professionalism" functions as a noun phrase that qualifies or describes the degree to which professional behavior is present. Ludwig AI shows that this phrase is typically used to indicate a partial or minimal level of adherence to professional standards.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "some semblance of professionalism" is a phrase used to denote a partial or superficial display of professional conduct. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability, primarily within neutral contexts such as News & Media. It is useful when you need to acknowledge professional behavior, while simultaneously highlighting its limitations. Remember to ensure that the phrase accurately reflects the situation, and consider stronger alternatives if the context warrants a more definitive statement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a degree of professionalism

Specifies the extent of professionalism, implying it's present to a certain measurable level.

a hint of professionalism

Suggests only a slight amount of professionalism is evident.

an air of professionalism

Focuses on the impression or atmosphere of professional conduct.

a touch of professionalism

Highlights a small but noticeable element of professional behavior.

a facade of professionalism

Indicates an outward appearance of professionalism that may not be genuine.

a show of professionalism

Emphasizes a deliberate display of professional conduct.

basic professional conduct

Highlights the fundamental standards of behavior expected in a professional setting.

rudimentary professionalism

Suggests a very basic or underdeveloped level of professional skills and behavior.

minimal professional standards

Implies adherence to the lowest acceptable level of professionalism.

a modicum of professional behavior

Focuses on a small or moderate amount of professionalism displayed.

FAQs

How can I use "some semblance of professionalism" in a sentence?

You can use "some semblance of professionalism" to describe a situation where the appearance or reality of professional behavior is partially present. For example, "Despite the chaotic environment, the team maintained "some semblance of professionalism" during the client meeting."

What phrases are similar to "some semblance of professionalism"?

Similar phrases include "a degree of professionalism", "a hint of professionalism", or "an air of professionalism", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "some semblance of professionalism" a formal or informal expression?

"Some semblance of professionalism" is generally suitable for neutral to formal contexts. It's not overly technical or stiff, but it's also not slang or colloquial.

When is it appropriate to use "some semblance of professionalism" instead of just "professionalism"?

Use "some semblance of professionalism" when you want to highlight that the professional behavior is incomplete, superficial, or barely present. It suggests that while there might be an attempt at professionalism, it's not fully realized or consistent.