English Reference

Word

mastering

Phoneticsmas·ter·ing, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈmæstɝɪŋ/

UK/mˈɑːstəɹɪŋ/

Definitions

01becoming highly skilled

B2 · Upper Intermediate

v. learning a skill or language so well that you have no difficulty with it.

v. the process of acquiring complete knowledge or skill in a specific subject or technique. As a gerund, it functions as a noun phrase head.

“Mastering a new language takes years of practice and daily conversation.”

“Mastering the nuances of international law requires not only academic study but also years of practical experience in diverse jurisdictions.”

02audio production

C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Music Technical

n. the final stage of preparing a song or album to make sure the sound quality is perfect.

n. the technical process of preparing and transferring recorded audio from a source containing the final mix to a data storage device. This is the final step of post-production.

“The band sent their new album for mastering to ensure it sounded great on all speakers.”

“Professional mastering can correct minor spectral imbalances and ensure that the album maintains a consistent perceived loudness across all tracks.”

Synonyms

post-productionfinalising

03controlling emotions or situations

C1 · Advanced Literary

v. gaining control over your feelings or a difficult situation.

v. the act of bringing a powerful emotion, impulse, or difficult circumstance under control. Often used in the progressive aspect to describe an ongoing struggle for self-regulation.

“He spent his life mastering his fear of public speaking.”

“Mastering one's temper in the face of such blatant provocation is the mark of a seasoned diplomat.”

Synonyms

Usage

Often functions as a gerund or a participial adjective; when used as a verb, it is transitive and requires a direct object.

Pitfall

He is mastering in English

He is mastering English

The verb 'master' is transitive and takes a direct object without the preposition 'in'.

Real-World Examples

“This ability may be one of the keys to successfully mastering the pronunciation of a new language.”
Phys.org 13 Oct 2026
“He spent four years mastering the techniques that would allow him to make faster deliveries to earn more money.”
The Guardian 15 Sept 2026
“Visitors aren't expected to order in Japanese, but mastering a few simple phrases will please your server and impress your new Japanese friends.”
BBC 14 Mar 2026
“And although it gets a little technical at times, mastering these concepts will enable us to brew a delicious cup of coffee every single time.”
Perfect Daily Grind 29 Apr 2018

Word family

VERB

mastering(B2)

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.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL 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: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Frequent
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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English Reference