master a skill

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "master a skill" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to talk about someone developing proficiency in a certain task or ability. For example, "Sara has worked hard to master her painting skill."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

Noë claims this is just what is means to master a skill.

The New York Times

"They don't want to master a skill just to reach a higher level.

The New York Times - Magazine

Still, with a bit of practice we may master a skill that will get us through the next fuel crisis.

The Guardian - Travel

She argues that only children with the "rage to master" a skill could make it through the gruelling years of training needed to achieve expert ability.

The Economist

One episode mined the notion that it takes 10,000 hours to master a skill, made popular in Malcolm Gladwell's "Outliers".

The New York Times

She is as at home with pictures as she is text, requiring her audience to master a skill she calls "visual reading".

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

Most video games are about repeated actions, about mastering a skill and exploiting it.

The New York Times - Arts

To build resilience, praise effort and emphasize that the child simply has not mastered a skill yet.

The Washington Post

What Professor Zajonc found was that when performers have mastered a skill at a high level, they are helped by the presence of an audience.

The New York Times

But he also found that when a performer has mastered a skill only imperfectly, the existence of onlookers is a hindrance.

The New York Times

There are literal journeys, like road trips or hikes, but there are other kinds, too, like learning and then mastering a skill, or doing in-depth research about something.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing the process of learning, pair "master a skill" with action verbs like "practice", "study", or "dedicate time" to show the effort involved.

Common error

Avoid using "master a skill" when you simply mean learning the basics. "Master" implies a high level of proficiency, not just initial exposure.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "master a skill" functions as a verb phrase where "master" acts as a transitive verb taking "skill" as its direct object. It describes the action of achieving a high level of competence in a particular ability. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

27%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "master a skill" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that describes the attainment of high proficiency in a particular ability. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread usage across various domains. As evidenced by the sources, this expression is common in news and media, scientific publications, and general writing. While the phrase is versatile, it's important to use it accurately, ensuring that it reflects a true level of expertise and not just basic learning. Consider alternatives like "gain mastery of a skill" or "develop expertise in a skill" for subtle differences in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gain mastery of a skill

Synonymous, but places more emphasis on complete control.

become proficient in a skill

Similar, but with slightly less emphasis on reaching the highest level.

acquire proficiency in a skill

Focuses on the process of gaining competence.

become adept at a skill

Emphasizes achieving a high level of expertise.

perfect a skill

Stresses the achievement of flawlessness in a skill.

develop expertise in a skill

Highlights the gradual growth of knowledge and ability.

hone a skill

Emphasizes refining and perfecting an existing skill.

cultivate a skill

Highlights the effort and nurturing involved in developing a skill.

excel at a skill

Focuses on surpassing others in ability.

attain competence in a skill

Focuses on achieving a basic level of capability.

FAQs

How can I use "master a skill" in a sentence?

You can use "master a skill" to describe the process of becoming highly proficient in a particular ability. For example, "It takes dedication to master a new language skill."

What are some alternatives to "master a skill"?

Alternatives include phrases like "gain mastery of a skill", "become proficient in a skill", or "develop expertise in a skill" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "master on a skill"?

No, the correct preposition is "master a skill". "Master" takes a direct object, indicating what is being mastered.

What does the phrase "rage to master a skill" mean?

The phrase "rage to master a skill", as highlighted in some sources, refers to the intense passion and drive required to achieve expert-level ability in a particular area.