amateurish
UK: ˈæmətərɪʃ | US: ˈæmətʃərɪʃ
adj. lacking skill or polish; unprofessional or inept
adj. characteristic of an amateur; not expert
The word "amateurish" derives from "amateur," which originates from the French "amateur" (itself from Latin "amator," meaning "lover" or "enthusiast"). Historically, an amateur was someone who pursued an activity out of passion rather than for professional skill. The suffix "-ish" (from Old English "-isc") adds the meaning "having the quality of," often with a slightly negative connotation. Thus, "amateurish" implies the unrefined or unskilled traits associated with a non-professional.
The painting had an amateurish quality, with uneven brushstrokes and clumsy composition.
His amateurish attempt at fixing the sink only made the leak worse.
The team's performance was criticized as amateurish due to their lack of coordination.
She dismissed his advice as amateurish and sought a professional opinion.
Despite his enthusiasm, his guitar playing remained amateurish after years of self-teaching.