semiprofessional

Semiprofessional, often shortened to semi-pro, refers to a status at the boundary between amateur and professional involvement in a sport, art, or other field. It typically describes individuals or groups that perform at a level above amateur competition and receive some compensation, but do not rely entirely on the activity as their sole livelihood. The exact criteria for being semi-professional can vary by country, sport, or organization, and may depend on contractual terms, income levels, or official designations.

In sports, semi-professional commonly applies to clubs or leagues where players are paid, sometimes part-time, while still pursuing other work or education. Players may have regular part-time salaries, stipends, or prize money that does not constitute full professional status. The semi-professional tier often serves as a bridge to full professionalism, allowing athletes to develop skills while balancing other commitments. The designation can influence eligibility, sponsorship, and league rules, and it may change over time as organizational structures evolve.

In other domains such as esports, music, film, or performing arts, semi-professional status similarly signals a higher level of involvement than casual or hobbyist play but stops short of full-time professional commitment. Participants may earn income from performances, gigs, or sponsorships yet maintain additional employment or formal training.

Overall, the term is context-dependent and can be informal. Different fields and organizations disagree on the thresholds for semi-professional status, and definitions may shift with economic changes, governance, or the emergence of new professional pathways.