English Reference

Word

artistry

US/ˈɑɹtɪstɹi/

UK/ˈɑːtɪstɹi/

Uncountable noun

Definition

n. the great skill or creative talent that someone shows when they make art or perform. It is more than just being good at a job; it means having a special, beautiful touch.

n. creative skill or ability of a high order, especially in a professional or artistic context. Refers to the aesthetic quality of a performance or work rather than mere technical proficiency.

Examples

“The chef's artistry is visible in every dish.”

“Critics praised the pianist not just for her speed, but for the emotional artistry she brought to the slow movements.”

“The film was a masterpiece of visual artistry, blending innovative lighting techniques with a color palette that perfectly mirrored the protagonist's internal journey.”

Examples

simple

“The chef's artistry is visible in every dish.”

contextual

“Critics praised the pianist not just for her speed, but for the emotional artistry she brought to the slow movements.”

complex

“The film was a masterpiece of visual artistry, blending innovative lighting techniques with a color palette that perfectly mirrored the protagonist's internal journey.”

Usage

Typically used to describe the quality of a person's work or the work itself.

Real-World Examples

“The challenge so far has been trusting herself to explore different sounds in an industry where Black women’s artistry is often flattened into categories.”
The Guardian 6 Sept 2026
“The Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA) said the new code would help "promote the human nature of artistry".”
BBC News 25 Aug 2026

Etymology

From artist + -ry.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Word family

ADJECTIVE

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
Frequency
Occasional
Level
C1 · Advanced
Updated

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English Reference