The word "sportsmanlike" is pronounced /ˈspɔrtsmənlaɪk/. The first syllable "sport" is pronounced with the same vowel sound as in "door" and the "t" is pronounced as a soft "t". The second syllable "sman" is pronounced with the same vowel sound as in "man". The final syllable "like" is pronounced the same as the word "like". The word is spelled with "manlike" instead of "manly" to emphasize the idea of sportsmanship or fair play, rather than gender.
Sportsmanlike (adjective):
Sportsmanlike refers to the behavior, conduct, and attitude that display fairness, integrity, and respectfulness in sports or competitive activities. It encapsulates the principles and values associated with healthy competition, focusing on demonstrating ethical behavior and showing respect for opponents, officials, and the rules of the game.
A sportsmanlike individual is one who not only strives for victory but also upholds the spirit of sportsmanship. This entails adhering to the rules, accepting both success and defeat gracefully, and treating opponents with fairness and respect. They aim to achieve their goals through skill, dedication, and hard work rather than resorting to cheating, unsportsmanlike conduct, or undermining their adversaries.
Sportsmanlike behavior encompasses several key aspects, including honest competition, courtesy, and graciousness. It entails acknowledging and appreciating the efforts of opponents, celebrating their achievements, and accepting the outcome of the game or competition with humility. Moreover, a sportsmanlike person understands and follows the decisions made by officials or referees, acknowledging their authority and maintaining a positive demeanor towards them.
Overall, sportsmanlike conduct fosters an atmosphere of camaraderie, mutual respect, and fair play, enhancing the enjoyment, integrity, and long-term sustainability of sports and competitive activities. It sets a positive example for others and promotes the development of important values such as empathy, integrity, and personal growth through sporting experiences.
The word "sportsmanlike" is derived from the combination of two words: "sportsman" and "like".
The term "sportsman" dates back to the mid-18th century and originally referred to a person who engaged in hunting, shooting, or other outdoor activities, commonly associated with the aristocracy. It comes from the word "sport", meaning leisure or pastime, combined with the suffix "-man", indicating a person who engages in a particular activity.
The suffix "-like" is used to form adjectives from nouns, indicating similarity or likeness to the noun. So when combined, "sportsmanlike" means "characteristic or exhibiting the qualities of a sportsman", particularly in terms of fair play, good sportsmanship, and adherence to the rules and spirit of a sport or game.