masters of thought

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "masters of thought" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to individuals or groups who are highly skilled in thinking, reasoning, or intellectual pursuits. Example: "Philosophers and great thinkers throughout history have often been regarded as masters of thought, shaping the way we understand the world."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

There are frequent riffs on great black figures, like Du Bois, Armstrong, James Brown, Ella Fitzgerald, and these function a little like the European masters of thought and action invoked in "The Adventures of Augie March," at once private goads and ironic measures of present failure.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

It was not enough to overthrow governments or masters; total revolution of thought was needed: "Every war is a defeat to the human spirit, as long as we refuse to think in terms of world good … Life demands that we offer spirit, soul, intelligence, goodwill.

The Guardian - Opinion

Briefly alluding to the methodological differences between Husserl and James, he emphasized two points where the "great masters" converged: the stream of thought and the theory of fringes.

SEP

This is what Garbo was such a master of: actual thoughts that had not occurred before that particular take.

The New York Times

You are the master of your thoughts and emotions; they are a choice.

Huffington Post

It's determination to be the master of our thoughts and not let the lies we tell ourselves destroy our happiness in a moment simply because the wiring was set into place many years ago and the dialogue feels awfully real.

Huffington Post

For Abelard and his cohort, it was understood that one had to master the basic grammar of thought before tackling the more difficult and more important work of theology and philosophy.

Huffington Post

Priding himself on his intelligence and his literary sensitivity, he studied law; he honed his rhetorical skills; he entered dramatic competitions; he consulted astrologers; he mastered the complex, sinuous system of thought associated with the Persian cult known as Manichaeanism.

The New Yorker

Evidence of Parisian masters engaging the thought of Wodeham in the years after 1347 is evident in the works of: Peter Ceffons O.Cist.

SEP

It might be a useful object that was designed by a master, like Ettore Sottsass, in which a lifetime of thought is apparent.

The New York Times

As a master of theatrical ceremony, McKellen has given a lot of thought to the notion of royal ritual and performance.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "masters of thought" to refer to individuals or groups recognized for their profound influence on a particular field of intellectual endeavor. Ensure the context clearly establishes their area of expertise.

Common error

Avoid using "masters of thought" in casual conversation or informal writing. The phrase carries a formal tone and is best suited for academic, journalistic, or professional contexts where intellectual rigor is emphasized.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "masters of thought" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject or object in a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is used to denote individuals or groups with significant influence and expertise in intellectual domains.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "masters of thought" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe individuals or groups recognized for their significant intellectual influence. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage in diverse contexts, primarily in news, science, and academic fields. While alternatives such as "leading thinkers" and "intellectual giants" exist, "masters of thought" specifically highlights a profound impact on the development and direction of ideas. When employing this phrase, it's essential to ensure the context aligns with its formal tone and the significance of the intellectual contribution being recognized.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

leading thinkers

Focuses on the individuals who are at the forefront of intellectual movements.

intellectual leaders

Highlights the leadership role these individuals play in shaping intellectual discourse.

great minds

Emphasizes the superior intellectual capacity of these individuals.

thought leaders

Highlights the role of shaping thoughts.

intellectual giants

Stresses the significant impact and influence of these individuals.

leading intellectuals

Similar to leading thinkers but with a slightly more formal tone.

esteemed thinkers

Highlights the respect and high regard these individuals are held in.

renowned intellectuals

Emphasizes the widespread recognition and fame of these individuals.

influential thinkers

Focuses specifically on the impact these individuals have on others' thoughts.

pioneers of thought

Highlights their innovative and groundbreaking contributions to intellectual fields.

FAQs

How can I use "masters of thought" in a sentence?

You can use "masters of thought" to describe individuals or groups who have significantly influenced a particular field of knowledge. For example: "The conference featured several "leading thinkers" in the field of artificial intelligence."

What are some alternatives to "masters of thought"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "thought leaders", "intellectual giants", or "leading intellectuals". Each phrase carries a slightly different nuance.

Is it appropriate to use "masters of thought" in academic writing?

Yes, "masters of thought" is suitable for academic writing, especially when discussing influential figures or schools of thought. However, ensure that its usage aligns with the overall tone and style of your writing.

What distinguishes "masters of thought" from "experts"?

"Masters of thought" implies a broader and more profound influence on intellectual discourse, whereas "experts" typically denotes specialized knowledge or skills in a specific area. "Masters of thought" often shape perspectives and inspire new ideas, going beyond mere expertise.