amateur hour

The term "amateur hour" originated from radio and television shows featuring non-professional performers and is now used idiomatically to describe situations marked by lack of skill or professionalism.

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Definition

B2General

(idiomatic, informal)A situation where participants display a lack of skill or professionalism.

Example

  • The meeting was such an amateur hour; nothing got accomplished.
  • Watching them try to fix the car was like witnessing amateur hour.

C1Entertainment

(historical)A broadcast event showcasing the talents of non-professional performers.

Example

  • The local radio station used to have an amateur hour every Sunday evening.