Professorial vs. Professor — What's the Difference?
By Maham Liaqat & Urooj Arif — Updated on May 4, 2024
"Professorial" refers to anything characteristic of a professor, especially an academic demeanor, whereas "professor" is a title for a university academic of the highest rank.
Difference Between Professorial and Professor
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
"Professorial" describes attributes or behavior typical of a professor, like scholarly demeanor or teaching style, emphasizing the qualities associated with academic roles. In contrast, "professor" is a specific academic title conferred upon individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise and hold a permanent faculty position at a university.
While professorial qualities can be exhibited by anyone who demonstrates a deep knowledge or formal, educational manner, the title of professor is typically reserved for individuals who have met certain criteria set by an academic institution, which often includes significant research, publication, and teaching experience.
The term "professorial" might be used in a broader context, not necessarily linked to holding an academic post. On the other hand, the term "professor" denotes a formal role within the hierarchy of academia, which usually includes responsibilities such as teaching, supervising research, and contributing to administrative duties.
Professorial demeanor can be attributed to individuals in various contexts outside of academia, such as someone giving a detailed, well-informed explanation on a complex topic. Meanwhile, being a professor involves specific responsibilities and recognition within an educational institution.
The adjective "professorial" can sometimes carry a connotation of being overly pedantic or theoretical, often used in informal discussions. Conversely, the title of "professor" is generally respected and recognized as a mark of credibility and academic achievement.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Pertaining to or characteristic of a professor
An academic title at a university
Usage
Adjective describing demeanor or style
Noun denoting a specific academic position
Context
Can be used broadly beyond academia
Strictly used within academic institutions
Connotations
Can imply being scholarly or pedantic
Denotes authority and expertise
Typical Responsibilities
None directly; refers to style or approach
Teaching, research, academic duties
Compare with Definitions
Professorial
Sometimes used pejoratively to describe overly detailed or pedantic behavior.
His professorial habits were sometimes off-putting at parties.
Professor
The title can vary in significance globally.
In the UK.only the most distinguished academics are titled professor.
Professorial
Characteristic of a professor; scholarly in nature.
His lecture was given in a professorial tone.
Professor
Respected for academic achievements and contributions to a field of study.
As a professor.he published numerous influential papers.
Professorial
Reflecting the demeanor or style associated with academic teaching.
His professorial attire included a tweed jacket.
Professor
A teacher of the highest academic rank in a college or university.
Professor Smith specializes in medieval history.
Professorial
Often used to describe thorough.detailed explanations.
His answer was professorial, full of depth and insight.
Professor
Involved in teaching.research.and often administrative responsibilities at a university.
The professor spent the morning on research and the afternoon lecturing.
Professorial
Pertaining to professors or the professoriate.
She had a professorial interest in the intricacies of language.
Professor
Holds a permanent faculty position.often with tenure.
She was thrilled to receive her promotion to full professor.
Professorial
A college or university teacher who ranks above an associate professor.
Professor
Professor (commonly abbreviated as Prof.) is an academic rank at universities and other post-secondary education and research institutions in most countries. Literally, professor derives from Latin as a "person who professes".
Professorial
A teacher or instructor.
Professor
A college or university teacher who ranks above an associate professor.
Professorial
One who professes.
Professor
A teacher or instructor.
Professorial
Of, relating to, or characteristic of a professor or professors, or of a professorship or professorships.
Professor
One who professes.
Professorial
Of or pertaining to a professor; as, the professional chair; professional interest.
Professor
The most senior rank for an academic at a university or similar institution, informally also known as "full professor."
Professorial
Relating to or characteristic of professors;
Professorial demeanor
Professor
A teacher or faculty member at a college or university regardless of formal rank.
Professor
(archaic) One who professes something, such as a religious doctrine.
Professor
A pianist in a saloon, brothel, etc.
Professor
The puppeteer who performs a Punch and Judy show; a Punchman.
Professor
One who professed, or makes open declaration of, his sentiments or opinions; especially, one who makes a public avowal of his belief in the Scriptures and his faith in Christ, and thus unites himself to the visible church.
Professor
One who professed, or publicly teaches, any science or branch of learning; especially, an officer in a university, college, or other seminary, whose business it is to read lectures, or instruct students, in a particular branch of learning; as a professor of theology, of botany, of mathematics, or of political economy.
Professor
Someone who is a member of the faculty at a college or university
Common Curiosities
How does one typically use the word "professorial" in a sentence?
It's often used to describe someone's behavior or speech, for example, "He gave a professorial nod in response to the complex question."
Are all university teachers called professors?
Not necessarily; academic ranks such as Lecturer, Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, and Professor reflect different levels of academic achievement and responsibility.
Does professorial refer only to university professors?
While primarily associated with university professors, the term "professorial" can refer to anyone exhibiting a scholarly or authoritative demeanor in any educational setting.
What is required to become a professor?
Becoming a professor usually requires a doctoral degree in a specific field, significant research contributions, and a record of academic publications.
What are the non-teaching duties of a professor?
These can include conducting research, publishing scholarly articles, attending conferences, and participating in university governance and committees.
How does the term "professorial" influence student perceptions?
Students might view someone with a professorial demeanor as more knowledgeable and authoritative, potentially impacting their engagement and respect in class.
What’s the typical career path to becoming a professor?
The path usually involves obtaining a PhD, followed by positions such as postdoctoral researcher, lecturer, and tenure-track positions before achieving professorship.
What differentiates a professor from an associate professor?
A professor typically holds a higher rank than an associate professor, often requiring more research, experience, and a stronger academic reputation.
Is the title "professor" the same in all countries?
No, the significance and requirements for the title "professor" can vary significantly from country to country.
Is a professor always involved in research?
While typically involved in research, some professors, especially those in teaching-focused institutions, might have lesser research obligations.
What impact does a professorial teaching style have on learning?
A professorial style, which is often thorough and analytical, can enhance deep understanding, but might also be challenging for some students if too detailed or theoretical.
Can the term "professorial" apply to someone's appearance?
Yes, it can describe someone's appearance if they dress or carry themselves in a way that is stereotypically scholarly, like wearing glasses or formal attire.
Can someone be professorial without being a professor?
Absolutely, individuals in many professional or educational roles can exhibit professorial qualities without holding the title of professor.
How does one address a professor?
In formal settings, it is customary to address a professor as "Professor [Last Name]" unless instructed otherwise.
Do professors have assistants?
Yes, professors often have graduate assistants or research assistants who help with academic tasks, research, and sometimes teaching duties.
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Written by
Maham Liaqat
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
