English Reference
Adjective

masterful

adj.
C1 Advanced US /ˈmæstɝfəɫ/ UK /mˈɑːstəfəl/ mas·ter·ful

adj.showing great skill or control over something. You use this to describe someone who is an expert at what they do.

adj.demonstrating great skill, proficiency, or authority. Often used to describe an artistic performance or a display of leadership.


SIMPLE

The pianist gave a masterful performance last night.

CONTEXTUAL

Her masterful handling of the difficult negotiations ensured that both parties left the room satisfied with the outcome.

COMPLEX

The novelist's masterful use of perspective allows the reader to empathize with even the most morally ambiguous characters throughout the narrative.

Usage

Often used attributively before a noun; can also follow linking verbs like 'be' or 'seem'.

Pitfall
He was very masterly at chessHe was very masterful at chess

While 'masterly' is a synonym, 'masterful' is more common in modern English to describe a person's high level of skill.

This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Occasional
Updated