businesslike
UK[ˈbɪznəslaɪk]US[ˈbɪznəslaɪk]
adj
efficient, practical, and focused on getting things done, in a way that is typical of a good business person.
adj
having a formal, serious, and organized appearance or manner.
Morpheme Breakdown
business
like
business
like
having the characteristics of
Etymology
the word "businesslike" is a modern english compound adjective formed by appending the productive suffix "-like" to the noun "business." the noun "business" itself has a rich history, evolving from an old english term for anxiety or care into its contemporary meaning of professional or commercial activity. the suffix "-like," with its origins in old english words for body and form, is used to create adjectives that denote resemblance or possession of qualities. therefore, "businesslike" literally means "having the characteristics of efficient, organized business," a semantic shift that reflects the cultural association of commerce with pragmatism and systematic action.
Analysis
Structure: business + like
business: from old english bisignis (anxiety, occupation), from bisig (busy) + -nis (noun-forming suffix). functions as the core noun denoting commercial activity or professional matters.
like: from old english līc (body, form, likeness), from proto-germanic līkō. functions as a suffix meaning "having the characteristics of" or "resembling".
Examples
she managed the project in a very businesslike manner, ensuring every deadline was met.
his businesslike approach to the negotiations left no room for sentimentality.
the office was decorated in a simple, businesslike style, with no unnecessary furnishings.