Amateur or Amature
Which Spelling is Correct?
Confused between "amateur" and "amature"? Learn the correct spelling, meaning, and how to use it properly in your writing.
Incorrect: Amature
"Amature" is a misspelling. The correct spelling is "amateur" with "eur" at the end.
Correct: Amateur
"Amateur" is the correct spelling. It means a person who engages in an activity for pleasure rather than as a profession.
Definitions
Amateur (noun/adjective):
A person who engages in an activity for pleasure rather than as a profession; non-professional.
Examples:
- • He is an amateur golfer.
- • The amateur competition was fierce.
- • She began as an amateur writer.
Amature (noun/adjective):
"Amature" is a misspelling of "amateur" and is not a valid English word.
Examples:
- • "Amature" is not used in standard English.
- • Always use amateur when referring to non-professionals.
Synonyms
Amateur:
- • Non-professional
- • Hobbyist
- • Enthusiast
- • Novice
- • Beginner
Amature:
- • (No valid synonyms; not a standard English word)
Usage Notes
Important Points:
- • Amateur is spelled with "eur" at the end, not "ure."
- • Used to describe someone who does something for pleasure, not money.
- • Can be used as both a noun and an adjective.
- • The word comes from French "amateur" meaning "lover."
- • "Amature" is never correct in any context.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is "amature" ever correct?
A: No, "amature" is never correct. The proper spelling is always "amateur."
Q: How do I remember the correct spelling?
A: Think of it as "am-a-teur" - it ends with "eur" like many French-derived words.
Q: What's the difference between amateur and professional?
A: An amateur does something for pleasure or as a hobby, while a professional does it for money or as a career.
Q: Can amateur be used negatively?
A: Sometimes "amateur" can imply lack of skill, but it can also simply mean non-professional.
Q: What are some common phrases using "amateur"?
A: Examples include: amateur athlete, amateur photographer, and amateur hour.
Q: Why do people often misspell this word?
A: The misspelling "amature" occurs because people think it should end with "ure" instead of "eur."
Q: Can amateur be used in formal writing?
A: Yes, "amateur" is appropriate in both formal and informal writing contexts.
Q: Is amateur always about skill level?
A: Not necessarily - amateur refers to motivation (pleasure vs. money) rather than skill level.
Summary
Remember: Amateur is the correct spelling with "eur" at the end. It means a person who engages in an activity for pleasure rather than as a profession. The misspelling "amature" is never correct. Use "amateur" to describe non-professional activities or participants.