# masterful

/ˈmæstɝfəɫ/ (US) · /mˈɑːstəfəl/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/masterful
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

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

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

## Examples

- The pianist gave a masterful performance last night.
- Her masterful handling of the difficult negotiations ensured that both parties left the room satisfied with the outcome.
- The novelist's masterful use of perspective allows the reader to empathize with even the most morally ambiguous characters throughout the narrative.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He was very masterly at chess" but "He 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.

## Usage notes

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

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.