master language

USAGE SUMMARY

Sentence The term 'master language' is a valid and usable part of a sentence in written English.
It is typically used in a figurative sense to refer to a person's native, or most proficient, language. For example, "John speaks Spanish as his master language."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

But how can you teach someone to master language or read literature until he's fallen in love with it?

The New York Times - Books

Young children love puns, and playing with words helps them expand their vocabulary and master language skills.

The New York Times

Children master music in much the same way that they master language, by listening and experimenting.

BBC

This ability may not be completely innate but can be acquired with considerable speed early in life, as has been found in young children well before they master language (Marcus et al. 1999).

Animal Cognition

In most cases, these children learn to talk, but they master language milestones much later than normal, and they may continue to use simplified syntax and vocabulary into adulthood.

Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

But those who master languages and computers may find themselves in demand.

The Economist

Naturally she takes the opportunity to flaunt her Francophone stylings, chalking up another mastered language next to that flawless English.

Independent

If we had only the story of Bridgman and how she mastered language, including abstract language, that would already be interesting enough.

The New York Times - Books

And while this is a straightforward effort, mainly consisting of tunes by Tadd Dameron and Dizzy Gillespie, it does much more than confirm bebop's stature as the reigning old-masters language in jazz.

The New York Times - Arts

We assessed the impact of cultural background by assessing the patients' best mastered language.

Antimicrobial Resistance and Infection Control

* = born in; example: CH, *IT, Italian: Italy born Swiss who see Italian as their best mastered language.

BMC Public Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming to "master language", focus on consistent practice and immersion in diverse contexts to enhance both fluency and accuracy.

Common error

Don't assume that being fluent in a language equates to having "master language". Fluency implies ease of communication, while mastery encompasses a deeper understanding of nuances, idioms, and cultural context. Strive for comprehensive understanding, not just conversational ability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "master language" functions as a verb phrase + noun, indicating the act of gaining proficiency in a language. Ludwig confirms this usage, showing it is used to describe the process of acquiring deep understanding and skill.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "master language" is a valid and useful phrase to describe reaching a high level of language proficiency. While Ludwig's examples show that it's not as common as alternatives like "master the language", it conveys a sense of deep understanding and skill. Given its primary contexts in news, science, and encyclopedias, the phrase suits neutral to formal communication, and its use indicates a dedication to achieving excellence in language abilities.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

acquire mastery of a language

Implies complete and comprehensive skill in a language.

achieve fluency in a language

Focuses on the outcome of achieving a high level of proficiency.

become proficient in a language

Emphasizes the development of skill and competence in language use.

attain command of a language

Highlights the ability to control and use a language effectively.

develop expertise in a language

Suggests a high level of specialized knowledge and skill.

reach a high level of competence in a language

Indicates achieving a significant degree of skill.

gain a strong grasp of a language

Focuses on understanding and practical application of a language.

become adept at using a language

Focuses on skillful and resourceful use of language.

excel in language skills

Highlights exceptional performance in language-related abilities.

cultivate linguistic proficiency

Emphasizes the process of developing language skills over time.

FAQs

How to use "master language" in a sentence?

You can use "master language" to describe someone's proficiency, such as, "Children master language by listening and experimenting."

What does it mean to "master language"?

To "master language" means to achieve a high level of proficiency, including understanding grammar, vocabulary, and cultural nuances. It goes beyond basic fluency.

Which is correct, "master language" or "master the language"?

Both phrases are correct, but "master the language" is more commonly used. "Master language" often appears in more formal or abstract contexts. Consider the phrase "acquire mastery of a language".

What are the benefits of "master language"?

"Master language" leads to improved communication, critical thinking, and cultural understanding. Being able to "master language" can unlock new opportunities in education, employment, and personal growth.