businesslike

comparative more businesslike · superlative most businesslike · alternative business-like

1. Methodical and efficient, in a way that would be advantageous to a business or businessperson.

   The gunners stood by the guns waiting, and the ammunition waggons were at a business-like distance.

   1898, H.G. Wells, The War of the Worlds, London: William Heinemann

   1 more example

   Further along, the road passes a low E-shape of red-brick estate buildings, obviously modern, yet all of a piece with this sensible, attractive and businesslike village.

   1980, AA Book of British Villages, Drive Publications Ltd, page 375, about Terling

2. Earnest and practical without being distracted or enthusiastic.

   Then, with a businesslike rigor, he grasped the outstretched palm of Casey DeSantis, Florida’s first lady.

   2024 November 1, Rebecca Davis O’Brien, “Did Ron DeSantis Shake His Wife’s Hand?”, in The New York Times

   Synonyms: earnest, focused, matter-of-fact