"Workmanlike"

[tinturtle]

When writing reviews of fan fiction, one of my highest praises is to say that a story is "workmanlike." By that, I suppose I mean well constructed in all its aspects—the kind of work where everything is done right, then done right again. It might be that I should come up with another word to describe this quality. I'm not sure people who read my comments (including fic authors) realize that "workmanlike" is one of my highest terms of praise. Not to mention the fact that the vast majority of fanfic is written...by women.

Comments

[vysila.livejournal.com]

To me, I'd probably interpret 'workmanlike' on a fanfic as meaning 'adequate but not great'. Which may be more than my work deserves anyway ;), but if you are intending to indicate higher praise than adequate, you might want to look for a different word. Although I may be in the minority opinion here, would love to hear others' opinions on this particular term.

Language is so fascinating, the different ways we use the same words to mean completely different intentions.

[tinturtle]

Yes. That's another reason to come up with a different word: this one is used in more than one way. Merriam-Webster gives the definition as "characterized by the skill and efficiency typical of a good workman," for which is offers synonyms such as "artful", "expert", "masterly", and even "virtuoso". On the other hand, it also notes "competent and skillful but not outstanding or original" as a secondary definition. Maybe I should try "masterly." That is also a gendered word, but it always implies excellence and has the same literal meaning of "expertly crafted". Or maybe I should just go with "expertly crafted."

[msmoat.livejournal.com]

Oh, interesting how Merriam-Webster defines it, and the synonyms! I've more often heard the second definition in conjunction with reviews of creative works--("The script is workmanlike but the acting is wonderful," for example.) So, to me, "workmanlike" would mean just as vysila said: adequate for the job. I suppose I'd contrast it with craftsmanship. Hmm

Definitely need some non-gendered words! I rather like your "expertly crafted".