masterpiece
/ˈmɑː.stə.piːs/ IELTSAcademic
noun
A masterpiece is a very great work of art, writing, music, or design. It is admired as the best work of an artist or creator.
- The film is a masterpiece.
- She called the painting a masterpiece.
- This novel is a true masterpiece.
Adinary Nuance
A masterpiece is stronger than just a “good work.” It suggests very high skill, beauty, or impact. Use it for art, books, films, or other creative work when you want to praise excellence. Words like “work,” “piece,” or “creation” are much more general.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- Kiệt tác
- Spanish
- Obra maestra
- Chinese
- 杰作
- Japanese
- 傑作
- Korean
- 걸작
Etymology
Masterpiece came into English from French in the 16th century. It originally meant the best work made by a craftsman to show skill.
Common phrases
a masterpiece of cinemaa literary masterpiecean architectural masterpiecea masterpiece in its own right
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is masterpiece a formal word?
- Yes. It is common in writing, reviews, and speech, but it sounds thoughtful and admiring.
- Can I call a song a masterpiece?
- Yes. People often use it for songs, albums, films, books, and paintings.
- What is the difference between masterpiece and work?
- Work is general. Masterpiece means a work of very high quality and skill.
- Is masterpiece used in IELTS writing?
- Yes, but use it carefully. It is best when you are praising a creative work clearly.