1. a person who engages in an activity for pleasure rather than as a profession
2. a person who lacks skill or experience in a particular activity
Usage: often derogatory

1. done by someone who is not a professional; not professional
2. lacking skill or expertise; not skillfully done
Usage: often derogatory

Examples

• She’s an amateur photographer who takes pictures on weekends.
• The amateur tennis tournament attracted players from across the state.
• His amateur attempt at fixing the car made the problem worse.
• The play was clearly an amateur production with many mistakes.
• As an amateur cook, he still struggles with basic techniques.
• The amateur radio operator contacted stations around the world.
• Don’t let that amateur handle such delicate equipment.