masterful command of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "masterful command of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone's exceptional skill or expertise in a particular area or subject. Example: "Her masterful command of the language allowed her to translate complex texts with ease."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

This may seem familiar territory, but De Lisle's masterful command of the facts – great and small – provides a complete and entertaining overview.

The Guardian - Books

Cumming has a masterful command of the language, making it clear and comfortable on the ear as he subtly shifts register from character to character.

The Guardian

Bishop is a talented and intelligent storyteller with a masterful command of language, and The Other Side of the World deserves to make many a book prize shortlist.

The Guardian - Books

Yet the theme of meditation on mortality is embodied more fully and with greater impact in De La Tour's masterful command of chiaroscuro: that candle-light redeeming the beautifully bared shoulder from the shadow's grasp.

The Guardian - Arts

It flashes back and forth between time periods, exerting the same masterful command of tension and pacing (and your heart-rate) that Naughty Dog established in last year's full-length game.

The Guardian - Tech

His five volumes of Symbolist verse Sögur og kvaedi (1897; "Stories and Poems"), Hafblik (1906; "Smooth Seas"), Hrannir (1913; "Waves"), Vogar (1921; "Billows"), Hvammar (1930; "Grass Hollows")—show a masterful command of the language and the influence of his extensive travels, and they exemplify his patriotism, mysticism, and love of nature.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Lorde herself is powerful, evocative and masterful in her command of language ― especially in her poetry ― and reading her work is crucial to an emotional understanding of the unique struggles of queer, black women in the second half of the 20th century.

Huffington Post

Describing the pervasive influence of tobacco lobbyists, he says: "Legislation from Congress testified to the masterful preparation and strategic command of the tobacco industry".However, the industry was powerless to prevent a flood of damaging internal documents, leaked by insiders.

The Economist

Fuzuli's diction is taut, his command of imagery masterful.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Yet her manner is easy and natural, her command of the space masterful in a way that some lesser artists might not have the belief to attempt, instead keeping the stage management to a minimum and babbling inanities as they seek their marks.

Independent

Their East Coast WASP confidence, their easy command of the classics, the masterful rhetoric -- it makes a southern boy feel so unschooled.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "masterful command of", ensure the context clearly defines the area of expertise. For example, "masterful command of the English language" is more precise than simply "masterful command".

Common error

Avoid using "masterful command of" in situations where simpler terms like "good understanding" or "competent in" would suffice. Overusing the phrase can sound pretentious or unnatural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "masterful command of" functions as an adjective phrase followed by a noun and preposition, modifying a subject by attributing to it exceptional skill or expertise. Ludwig AI confirms its usability for describing proficiency.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "masterful command of" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe exceptional skill or expertise. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is correct. While not exceedingly common, it appears in diverse contexts, including news, encyclopedias, and science. To maintain a natural tone, it's best to avoid overuse and opt for simpler alternatives when appropriate. Remember that "masterful command of" is about superior ability and should be used when this is the quality you want to express.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

expert handling of

Focuses on skillful management or treatment of something.

adept control over

Emphasizes skillful governance or regulation.

proficient grasp of

Highlights a thorough and capable understanding.

skilled mastery of

Combines the notions of skill and comprehensive control.

deft command of

Emphasizes agility and skill in controlling something.

consummate skill in

Highlights exceptional and refined ability.

authoritative grip on

Suggests a firm and knowledgeable control.

seasoned expertise in

Implies extensive experience and skill.

accomplished facility with

Focuses on ease and competence in using something.

polished technique in

Emphasizes refined and sophisticated skill.

FAQs

How can I use "masterful command of" in a sentence?

Use "masterful command of" to describe someone's exceptional skill or expertise in a specific area. For example: "The conductor displayed a masterful command of the orchestra".

What are some alternatives to "masterful command of"?

You can use alternatives like "expert handling of", "proficient grasp of", or "skilled mastery of" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "masterful command on" or "masterful command of"?

"Masterful command of" is the correct and idiomatic phrasing. "Masterful command on" is grammatically incorrect and should be avoided.

What does it mean to have a "masterful command of" something?

To have a "masterful command of" something means to possess exceptional skill, expertise, and control over it, indicating a high level of proficiency and competence.