be a master of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be a master of" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when referring to someone who has extensive knowledge or skill in a particular area. Example: "She aims to be a master of the violin." Alternative expressions include "be an expert in" and "be proficient in."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

You'll never be a master of anything.

The Guardian - Film

I had to be a master of one.

The New York Times

A naval architect must be a master of approximations.

Encyclopedia Britannica

You can't be a master of everything in today's world.

The Economist

So can it be a master of all trades?

Independent

Conversationally, he can be a master of deflection.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

As with most jack-of-all-trades devices, it's common to be a master-of-none.

TechCrunch

Powell was a master of urban observation.

The New Yorker

Liszt was a master of rebranding.

The New York Times - Arts

Brahms is a master of understatement.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Weschler is a master of narrative nonfiction.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be a master of", ensure the context clearly defines the specific skill or area of expertise being referenced. Specificity enhances clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid using "be a master of" loosely for skills that require only basic competence. Reserve it for situations where a high degree of expertise is genuinely involved.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be a master of" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to express the state of possessing high-level skill or expertise in a specific domain. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Encyclopedias

12%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be a master of" is a versatile and frequently used expression to denote exceptional skill or expertise in a particular area. Ludwig AI affirms its correct grammatical standing and usability. Analysis reveals that it is most commonly found in news and media, encyclopedias, and wiki contexts, with a neutral register suitable for both formal and informal communication. Alternatives include "excel at something" and "become an expert in", allowing for nuanced expression. It's important to use this phrase judiciously, reserving it for contexts where genuine mastery is demonstrated.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

have a mastery of

Shifts the focus to possessing mastery as a quality.

master a skill

Focuses on the action of mastering rather than the state of being a master.

have expertise in

Highlights the possession of specialized knowledge.

excel at something

Highlights exceptional performance rather than comprehensive mastery.

be proficient in

Emphasizes competence and skill, but not necessarily the highest level of expertise.

be adept at

Similar to proficient but suggests a natural talent or aptitude.

become an expert in

Focuses on the process of gaining expertise.

be skilled in

A more general term indicating competence.

be versed in

Suggests knowledge and familiarity, particularly in academic or technical fields.

be a pro at

A more informal way of saying someone is very good at something.

FAQs

How can I use "be a master of" in a sentence?

You can use "be a master of" to describe someone with exceptional skill or expertise in a particular field. For example, "She wants to "be a master of" coding" or "He is known to "be a master of" negotiation".

What phrases can I use instead of "be a master of"?

Alternatives include "excel at something", "be proficient in", "have a mastery of", or "become an expert in". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to "be a master of" one thing or a jack-of-all-trades?

Whether it's better to ""be a master of"" one thing or a jack-of-all-trades depends on your personal and professional goals. Specializing allows for deep expertise, while versatility offers broader adaptability.

Which is correct: "be a master of" or "become a master at"?

"Be a master of" is generally used to describe a current state of expertise, while "become a master at" describes the process of achieving that expertise. Both are grammatically correct, but have subtly different meanings.