ability to master

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ability to master" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing someone's skill or competence in a particular area or subject. Example: "Her ability to master complex mathematical concepts sets her apart from her peers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Nonetheless, China has shown an extraordinary ability to master certain Western games.

The New Yorker

He praised Bloomberg's ability to master and improve the various systems of the city.

The New Yorker

But the ability to master graphene gives the Dutch team an interesting advantage.

MIT Technology Review

This could help erode people's willingness and ability to master the different levels.

The Economist

However, not all students have the same levels of ability to master these skills.

English for Specific Purposes

The ability to master communication and cooperation skills is a key factor for success.

IFAC Proceedings Volumes

Many residents of India's "maximum city" are proud of their ability to master the daily assault course on the train.

The Guardian

Online games approach is recommended as a tool that can enhance students' ability to master the Arabic language.

Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences

The ability to master these tasks and pass them down to others draws on brain functions that are essential to the modern mind.

The Guardian

Reading comprehension and the ability to master foreign languages would soar as our children grasped the root words that influence so many words we know (and don't).

The New York Times

Arthur is not dissimilar to David Hockney, Miles Davis, Picasso or Prince in his restlessness and ability to master whatever he chose to turn his hand to.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the "ability to master" a skill, be specific about the context or field to provide clarity. For example, instead of saying 'He has the ability to master skills,' specify 'He has the ability to master complex coding languages.'

Common error

Avoid using the phrase "ability to master" in overly broad contexts without specific examples. Saying someone has the "ability to master anything" can sound hyperbolic and less credible than highlighting specific achievements.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ability to master" functions as a noun phrase that describes a specific capability. Ludwig AI confirms this through numerous examples where it acts as the subject or object of a sentence, highlighting someone's competence or potential.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

28%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "ability to master" is a commonly used and grammatically sound expression that denotes competence or potential in a particular area. Ludwig AI's analysis, backed by numerous real-world examples, confirms its widespread usage across diverse contexts, including news, science, and encyclopedic sources. While it maintains a neutral to professional register, the key to effective use lies in providing specific context to avoid overgeneralization. Alternative phrases like "capacity to learn" or "skill in mastering" can add nuance depending on the intended meaning. As Ludwig's analysis indicates, the phrase's frequency and authoritative sourcing make it a reliable choice for clear and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

competence in mastering

Highlights the sufficiency of the ability to master something.

skill in mastering

Emphasizes the developed proficiency in achieving mastery.

talent for mastering

Suggests an innate gift or special ability.

expertise in acquiring

Underscores a high level of skill and knowledge.

capacity to learn

Focuses on the potential to acquire knowledge or skills, rather than the existing ability.

proficiency in grasping

Focuses on the ease and quickness of understanding and mastering.

aptitude for acquiring

Highlights a natural talent or inclination toward gaining expertise.

knack for picking up

Suggests a natural ease and informal approach to mastering something.

potential to conquer

Conveys a sense of overcoming challenges to achieve mastery.

power to dominate

Focuses on an exceptional ability to control and excel.

FAQs

How can I use "ability to master" in a sentence?

You can use "ability to master" to describe someone's competence in a specific area. For example: "Her ability to master foreign languages is impressive." or "The company values the ability to master new technologies quickly."

What are some alternatives to "ability to master"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "capacity to learn", "skill in mastering", or "talent for mastering".

Is it more formal to say "ability to master" or "skill to master"?

"Ability to master" and "skill to master" are generally interchangeable. However, "ability" might be perceived as slightly more formal in certain contexts, emphasizing potential rather than demonstrated skill.

What is the difference between "ability to master" and "potential to master"?

"Ability to master" suggests a current capability or a developed skill, while "potential to master" implies a future possibility or untapped skill. For instance, "She has the ability to master new software quickly" indicates she's already proficient, while "She has the potential to master complex coding" suggests she could become proficient with training.