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Masterful vs Handy - What's the difference?

masterful | handy | Related terms |

Masterful is a related term of handy.


As an adjective masterful

is of or pertaining to the manner of a master of an art, technique, profession, or craft; masterly.

As a noun handy is

tail.

masterful

English

Alternative forms

* masterfull (archaic)

Adjective

(en adjective)
  • Of or pertaining to the manner of a master of an art, technique, profession, or craft; masterly.
  • :The brushwork on the skin tones was masterful .
  • In the manner of a master; very skillful.
  • The masterful conducting ensured the orchestra gave of their best .
  • Having or showing the qualities of a master vis-a-vis a dependent or subordinate; authoritative; domineering.
  • * 1847 , Charlotte BrontĂ«, Jane Eyre , Chapter 14, Rochester to Jane by the fire:
  • ...do you not agree with me that I have a right to be a little masterful , abrupt; perhaps exacting, sometimes, on the grounds I stated...
  • * 1868-69 , Louisa May Alcott, Little Women , Chapter 38:
  • When John spoke in that masterful tone, Meg always obeyed, and never regretted her docility.
  • * 1908 , E. M. Forster, A Room with a View , Chapter 18, Lucy to Mr. Beebe about Cecil:
  • ...it was that he is so masterful . I found that he wouldn't let me go my own way.

    Usage notes

    Historically, definition 3 of masterful''''' (authoritative, domineering) has long been losing ground to definitions 1 and 2 (masterly, skillful). In nineteenth century US usage of '''''masterful , definition 3 was almost always meant (10:1). In contemporary US usage, however, the situation is reversed: definitions 1 or 2 are usually meant (10:1).

    Derived terms

    * masterfully * masterfulness

    handy

    English

    Adjective

    (er)
  • Easy to use, useful.
  • Some people regard duct tape as a handy fix-all .
  • Nearby, within reach.
  • You wouldn’t have a screwdriver handy , would you ?
  • (dialect) dexterous, skilful
  • She's very handy - she made all her own kitchen cupboards.

    Synonyms

    * (useful) * (nearby) at hand * (skilful) crafty

    References

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