workmanlike
Meaning
showing efficient skill but not inspiration or originality; competent and practical.
Structure
Usage
he carried out the repairs in a thorough and workmanlike manner.
the report was workmanlike but lacked any striking insights.
it was a workmanlike performance from the team, securing a solid if unspectacular victory.
Etymology
The word 'workmanlike' is a compound adjective formed in English from the noun 'workman' and the suffix '-like'. 'workman' itself is an Old English compound, reflecting the practical, labor-focused society of its origin. The suffix '-like', also of Old English origin, is used to form adjectives meaning "resembling or characteristic of." Therefore, the literal construction means "having the qualities of a skilled worker." Over time, this evolved from a simple descriptor of craftsmanship to its modern, more nuanced meaning which emphasizes competent, efficient, and reliable execution, often with an implicit contrast to inspired or artistic genius.
Analysis
workman (from old english 'weorcman', a compound of 'weorc' (work) and 'mann' (man), meaning a male worker or craftsman) + like (from old english 'gelīc', meaning having the form or qualities of).