master of the craft

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "master of the craft" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe someone who has achieved a high level of skill or expertise in a particular field or profession. For example, "She is a master of the craft, known for her exquisite woodworking skills." Alternative expressions include "expert in the field" and "skilled artisan."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

Not one was born a master of the craft.

The New York Times

But Homo sapiens is a master of the craft.

The New Yorker

I think Mike is a master of the craft.

The Guardian - Film

The show features continuing projections (by a master of the craft, Wendall K. Harrington) of familiar time-capsule images.

The New York Times

History, as Simon Schama, a master of the craft, says, should be the instrument of self-criticism, not self-congratulation.

The Economist

I loved Kore-eda's film I Wish, a gem of world cinema by a gifted Japanese master of the craft.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

In addition to screenings of movies by masters of the craft such as Harold Lloyd and Buster Keaton, it hosts performances by modern celebrity fans of the genre.

The Guardian

There was a reason that his books were translated into Russian by masters of the craft, and were allowed to be printed in runs of millions of copies.

The New Yorker

Because of their preference for ebony, the French masters of the craft of veneering were known as ébénistes, although they later combined veneering with technical variations such as marquetry.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He gravitates to the kind of regional misfits who drew Flannery O'Connor's eye, and his dialogue is snappy and eccentric, like a combination of two masters of the craft, Elmore Leonard and Charles Portis.

The New York Times - Books

Admirers of fine writing about sports consider John Lardner to be at least the equal and possibly the superior of such masters of the craft as Red Smith and W. C. Heinz.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "master of the craft" to acknowledge someone's deep expertise and dedication to their skill. For example, "She is a true master of the craft, consistently producing exceptional work."

Common error

Avoid using "master of the craft" when describing someone with basic competence. This phrase is reserved for those who demonstrate exceptional skill and a deep understanding of their field.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "master of the craft" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject complement or appositive. It identifies someone who possesses exceptional skill and expertise in a particular field. Ludwig AI confirms its accurate and varied usage across numerous contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "master of the craft" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe individuals with exceptional skill and expertise. Ludwig AI examples show it is frequently found in news and media contexts, with a neutral to professional tone. When writing, remember this phrase is best reserved for those who truly demonstrate deep expertise. Alternatives like "expert in the field" or "skilled artisan" can be used for similar but slightly different connotations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

expert in the field

Focuses on expertise rather than the artistry involved in the craft.

skilled artisan

Highlights the manual skill and artistry involved.

adept practitioner

Emphasizes skillful and proficient application of knowledge.

accomplished professional

Focuses on professional achievement and skill.

virtuoso performer

Implies exceptional technical skill and artistry, typically in performing arts.

seasoned veteran

Highlights experience and long-term involvement.

authority in the subject

Highlights in-depth knowledge and recognized expertise.

leading expert

Emphasizes a position of leadership and recognized knowledge.

highly skilled specialist

Highlights specialization and a high degree of skill.

consummate professional

Emphasizes the peak of professionalism and skill.

FAQs

How can I use "master of the craft" in a sentence?

You can use "master of the craft" to describe someone highly skilled in their profession, like: "The renowned chef is a "master of the craft", creating culinary masterpieces".

What's a good alternative to "master of the craft"?

Alternatives include "expert in the field", "skilled artisan", or "adept practitioner", depending on the context.

Is "master of the craft" formal or informal?

"Master of the craft" has a neutral to slightly formal tone, suitable for professional or respectful communication. It's more elevated than simple terms like "good at it".

Can "master of the craft" apply to any skill?

Yes, "master of the craft" can apply to any skill, from cooking and writing to surgery and engineering, as long as the person demonstrates exceptional proficiency.