businesslike

adjective

busi·​ness·​like ˈbiz-nəs-ˌlīk How to pronounce businesslike (audio)
-nəz-
Synonyms of businesslikenext
1
: exhibiting qualities believed to be advantageous in business
2
: serious, purposeful

Examples of businesslike in a Sentence

His businesslike approach to the dispute was very helpful.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The relative wrote back and, in an almost businesslike tone, informed her that there was no space left at the Maine cemetery. — Natalia Sánchez Loayza, Scientific American, 13 Mar. 2026 The atmosphere was hushed and businesslike; this was a routine pretrial hearing, and only a few other spectators joined me in the gallery. — Patrick Radden Keefe, New Yorker, 13 Apr. 2026 Eva is a complex character, flinty and businesslike, deadly serious about her mission and willing to make ethical compromises to move it forward. — David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 10 Mar. 2026 Rockies manager Warren Schaeffer praised Sugano for his businesslike approach to the game. — Patrick Saunders, Denver Post, 23 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for businesslike

Word History

First Known Use

1677, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of businesslike was in 1677

Rhymes for businesslike

See All Rhymes for businesslike

Browse Nearby Words

business life insurance
businesslike
business machine
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Cite this Entry

“Businesslike.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/businesslike. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

businesslike

adjective
busi·​ness·​like ˈbiz-nə-ˌslīk How to pronounce businesslike (audio)
-nəz-ˌlīk
: having or showing qualities desirable in business

More from Merriam-Webster on businesslike

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