masterful in

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "masterful in" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone's exceptional skill or expertise in a particular area or activity. Example: "Her performance was masterful in its execution, showcasing her years of training and dedication."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Josie's masterful in capturing the living spirit in the metal.

The New York Times

Frank Lloyd Wright was masterful in creating beautiful spatial sequences within residential-scale buildings.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He has been masterful in guiding the Vikings to 7-1.

The New York Times - Sports

Rigondeaux looked masterful — so masterful, in fact, that Agbeko seemed unsure whether he should be punching back or taking notes.

The New Yorker

Pop stood short but masterful in the sweaters, and his belly sticking out, not soft but hard.

The New Yorker

This sort of language is masterful in the hands of Armando Ianucci, but here it often falls with a thud.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

The score is masterful in its tension and compression, its spareness of detail, both vocal and instrumental, speaking volumes.

The Guardian - Music

But for a few dips – towards the end of the first set and during the second – Djokovic was masterful in all departments.

The Guardian - Sport

All that said, it's undeniably true that the British upper class have been masterful in maintaining their privileges over the centuries.

Independent

True enough, but if you aren't masterful in your own language you are at an enormous disadvantage socially, cognitively and economically.

The Guardian

Whereas Dickens's heroines are usually angelic or mischievous young girls, Trollope is masterful in his portrayal of women as strong and complex individuals.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "masterful in" to describe someone's ability to control and expertly execute a task or skill. It implies not just competence but also a level of artistry or command.

Common error

Avoid using "masterful in" when a simpler word like "skilled" or "proficient" would suffice. "Masterful" suggests a degree of expertise that might be inappropriate for everyday situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "masterful in" functions as an adjectival modifier, typically describing someone's exceptional ability or expertise. As noted by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used. Examples from Ludwig show it modifying individuals, performances, and even abstract qualities like storytelling.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

84%

Encyclopedias

7%

Wiki

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "masterful in" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe someone's exceptional skill or expertise. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is applicable across various contexts, with a strong presence in news and media. While alternatives like "adept at" or "skilled in" exist, "masterful in" specifically highlights a command and artistry beyond mere competence. When choosing this phrase, consider the context and ensure it aligns with the level of expertise you wish to convey. Be aware, as Ludwig notes, it may be less ideal to use it in simple contexts, as it may sound pretentious.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

adept at

Focuses more directly on skill level, less on commanding presence.

proficient in

Emphasizes competence and technical skill.

skilled in

A more general term for having expertise.

expert at

Highlights a high level of specialized knowledge.

accomplished in

Suggests a track record of success and achievement.

talented in

Implies natural aptitude or innate ability.

gifted in

Similar to talented, but suggests a more exceptional, innate quality.

virtuoso in

Suggests exceptional technical skill and artistry.

outstanding in

Emphasizes exceptional performance or quality.

remarkable in

Highlights the noteworthiness or impressiveness of the skill.

FAQs

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

You can use "masterful in" to describe someone's exceptional skill or expertise in a particular area. For example, "She was "masterful in" her handling of the negotiations."

What are some alternatives to "masterful in"?

Alternatives to "masterful in" include "adept at", "proficient in", or "skilled in", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "masterful in" in formal writing?

Yes, "masterful in" is suitable for formal writing when you want to emphasize a high level of skill and control. However, consider the context and whether a simpler term might be more appropriate.

What's the difference between "masterful in" and "skilled in"?

"Masterful in" suggests a higher degree of expertise and control than "skilled in". "Masterful" implies not just competence but also artistry and command, where "skilled in" simply means capable.