mastery of a language

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "mastery of a language" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing someone's proficiency or command over a particular language. Example: "Achieving mastery of a language requires dedication, practice, and immersion in the culture."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Mastery of a language entails mastery of its grammar but not vice versa.

SEP

First, Chomsky argued, mastery of a language is not merely a matter of having one's verbal behaviors 'controlled' by various elements of the environment, including others' utterances.

SEP

His second big mistake was related to this one: he failed to recognize that acquiring mastery of a language is not a matter of being trained what to say.

SEP

The lack of listening skills in the classroom impedes the mastery of a language and plays an overwhelming role in an individual's academic success, more than reading and writing skills or academic aptitude (Abelmann and Kang 2014; Bartlett and Fischer 2011; Fischer 2012; Tweed and Lehman 2002).

Asian-Pacific Journal of Second and Foreign Language Education

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Mastery of a foreign language has been a required skill in every Western civilization since time immemorial.

The New Yorker

But mastery of a programming language is a step along the road to success for many a whiz-kid with Internet ambitions.Of all these languages, Java makes the most headlines.

The Economist

The real impact of this long tradition is, however, not in the field of business or diplomacy or mathematics or exploration; it is because mastery of a foreign language is a prerequisite for understanding how to use your own.

The New Yorker

Mastery of a particular language is now harder, since polyglots have to divide their time across multiple environments.

TechCrunch

The results lead to the conclusion that mastery of a second language is a specific competence considered by teachers to be crucial for the training of university BMA and Engineering students, although Spain is behind other countries in the region with regard to how the importance of a second language is perceived as a curricular and professional competence.

Investigaciones Europeas de Dirección y Economía de la Empresa

His Rwanda books strip humanity to its core with an exquisite mastery of language — a stark, seemingly ancient, oral-history-tinged style.

The New Yorker

The persuasive genius of Frederick Douglass, of Abraham Lincoln, of Ida B. Wells, of Cesar Chavez, sprang from a mastery of this language, and a perception of its application to a previously unimaginable future.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for "mastery of a language", focus on consistent practice across all four key areas: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Immersion and active application are essential.

Common error

Don't assume that "fluency" alone equates to "mastery of a language". Fluency implies ease of communication, while mastery includes a deeper understanding of grammar, cultural nuances, and idiomatic expressions. Strive for comprehensive knowledge, not just conversational ability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "mastery of a language" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a state of advanced competence and control over a particular language. Ludwig examples show its use in various academic and professional contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "mastery of a language" is a noun phrase denoting a high level of proficiency and comprehensive understanding of a language. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usage in varied contexts, including science, news, and encyclopedias. While synonyms like "command of a language" and "fluency in a language" exist, "mastery" suggests a deeper, more nuanced grasp. Achieving mastery involves consistent practice, immersion, and a focus on both fluency and comprehensive knowledge, moving beyond mere conversational ability. The expression appears mostly in neutral to formal registers, making it suitable for diverse writing scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Command of a language

Focuses more on the ability to use the language effectively.

Fluency in a language

Emphasizes the ease and smoothness of speaking.

Proficiency in a language

Highlights competence and skill level.

Expertise in a language

Suggests a high level of specialized knowledge.

Grasp of a language

Implies understanding and control of the language's nuances.

Competence in a language

Indicates the ability to perform language tasks adequately.

Facility with a language

Highlights the ease and naturalness of language use.

Acquisition of a language

Focuses on the process of learning rather than the current skill level.

Knowledge of a language

Refers to the factual understanding of the language's elements.

Adeptness in a language

Shows skill in using language.

FAQs

How is "mastery of a language" different from fluency?

"Mastery" implies a deeper, more comprehensive understanding and control of the language, including its nuances and subtleties. "Fluency", on the other hand, primarily refers to the ease and speed with which someone can communicate.

What are some alternative ways to say "mastery of a language"?

You can use alternatives such as "command of a language", "proficiency in a language", or "expertise in a language" depending on the context.

How does one achieve "mastery of a language"?

Achieving "mastery of a language" typically involves consistent practice, immersion in the language and culture, formal study, and continuous learning and refinement of skills over time.

Is "mastery of a language" necessary for effective communication?

While "mastery of a language" isn't always necessary for basic communication, it enhances the ability to communicate complex ideas, understand cultural nuances, and avoid misunderstandings. Fluency can be sufficient for everyday interactions, but mastery provides a significant advantage in professional and academic settings.