A vocation in which professed knowledge of a branch of learning is applied is best defined as what?

The definition of a profession emphasizes specialized knowledge and a commitment to ethics, standards, and ongoing education within a particular field. A profession is typically characterized by advanced education, a formal structure, and a body of knowledge that distinguishes it from general occupations or jobs. This means that individuals in a profession not only perform tasks but also engage in practices that uphold the integrity of their field and serve the interests of their community or clients.

In contrast, the other terms like occupation, career, and job are broader categories and do not specifically convey the same level of expertise or ethical responsibility associated with a profession. An occupation can refer to any type of work or trade, while a career generally denotes a progression of jobs within a field but lacks the specificity of specialized knowledge and ethics inherent in a profession. A job usually refers to any specific task or position held by an individual and does not imply any commitment to a body of knowledge or ethical standards. Thus, the most fitting term for describing a vocation that involves the application of professed knowledge and expertise is "profession."