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as in arrogant
having a feeling of superiority that shows itself in an overbearing attitude a masterful businesswoman who didn't hesitate to step on a lot of people as she climbed the ladder of success

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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Synonym Chooser

How is the word masterful distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of masterful are domineering, imperative, imperious, and peremptory. While all these words mean "tending to impose one's will on others," masterful implies a strong personality and ability to act authoritatively.

her masterful personality soon dominated the movement

When could domineering be used to replace masterful?

The words domineering and masterful are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, domineering suggests an overbearing or arbitrary manner and an obstinate determination to enforce one's will.

children controlled by domineering parents

When is imperative a more appropriate choice than masterful?

While in some cases nearly identical to masterful, imperative implies peremptoriness arising more from the urgency of the situation than from an inherent will to dominate.

an imperative appeal for assistance

In what contexts can imperious take the place of masterful?

In some situations, the words imperious and masterful are roughly equivalent. However, imperious implies a commanding nature or manner and often suggests arrogant assurance.

an imperious executive used to getting his own way

When is it sensible to use peremptory instead of masterful?

Although the words peremptory and masterful have much in common, peremptory implies an abrupt dictatorial manner coupled with an unwillingness to brook disobedience or dissent.

given a peremptory dismissal

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of masterful Fans swayed and danced beneath the open sky, entirely captivated by Kaytranada’s masterful set. Mecca Pryor, Essence, 24 Mar. 2025 Therefore, the biggest vendors that service the edge have done a masterful job of slowing innovation and forcing customers to stick with the older solutions. Jason Andersen, Forbes, 19 Mar. 2025 His masterful account dramatically conveys the global significance of America’s long fight for independence while also illuminating the experiences of the war’s commanders and everyday soldiers. Monitor Contributors, Christian Science Monitor, 11 Apr. 2025 The Clippers still are playing for something and that was enough motivation during a 134-117 win over the Rockets behind another masterful game from center Ivica Zubac. Broderick Turner, Los Angeles Times, 10 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for masterful
Recent Examples of Synonyms for masterful
Adjective
  • Other writers and artists have also begun to mine this era for clues to China’s current authoritarian malaise.
    Ian Johnson, The Atlantic, 27 Mar. 2025
  • Since taking office just a few weeks ago, President Trump has rapidly depleted the reservoir of America’s soft power with an authoritarian bent and astonishing speed.
    Penny Abeywardena, Forbes.com, 27 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Ava Daniels is a young comedy writer who is unable to find work due to an insensitive tweet and her reputation for being self-centered and arrogant.
    Paul Tassi, Forbes.com, 9 Apr. 2025
  • And the villains, of course, exuding every nastily relatable emotion; the stepmothers and sorceresses are vain, arrogant, dismissive, lonely, rude, and outrageous.
    Darren Franich, Vulture, 26 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Elegant materials, bespoke furnishings, skillful layering of textures, and eye-catching lighting are all hallmarks of Hogarty’s soulful spaces, and the firm seeks to create an emotional response with its polished yet comfortable aesthetic.
    Elizabeth Stamp, Architectural Digest, 15 Apr. 2025
  • Hiring managers must learn to distinguish between misuse and skillful application to capture a candidate’s ability to tackle real-world challenges.
    Bing Yu Yap, Forbes.com, 4 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Additionally, nonprofits, my primary market, remained underserved in technology, ensuring a continuous need for expert guidance.
    Will Freeman, Forbes.com, 15 Apr. 2025
  • Subscribe to the Life Kit newsletter for expert advice on love, money, relationships and more.
    Brittney Melton, NPR, 15 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Carrie is described as a reimagining of the story of misfit high-schooler Carrie White, who has spent her life in seclusion with her domineering mother.
    Nellie Andreeva, Deadline, 10 Apr. 2025
  • Perhaps most frustrating to Mainers: the domineering influence of Boston in the state’s government.
    Made by History, Time, 7 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • The curved, low-profile silhouette creates a modern spin on the otherwise classic design, while the chair’s high-density foam filling offers superior support.
    Megan Schaltegger, People.com, 9 Apr. 2025
  • Plus, consumers increasingly want digital capabilities for all their transactions, so using a card and mobile app ultimately offers them their preferred method of interaction, creating a superior and sticky customer experience.
    Ashley McGrail, Forbes.com, 8 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Moscow is particularly adept at what is known as hybrid warfare, a raft of tactics that can include targeting vital cables snaking along the seabed.
    John W. Dean, MSNBC Newsweek, 7 Apr. 2025
  • Currently, there is no formal training program to ensure that a doctor is adept at robotic surgery.
    Uma Raja, Sun Sentinel, 7 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Meanwhile, Belinda is set to be honored with the Evolution Award, a special honor that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional growth, transformation, and innovation throughout their artistic journey, and an enduring impact and commitment to evolving their vision and voice.
    Griselda Flores, Billboard, 8 Apr. 2025
  • The theater’s artistic triumphs (in good seasons) and the raucous, even dangerous neighborhood (nearly every season) are both hardwired into the Times Square DNA.
    Frank Rich, Vulture, 8 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Masterful.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/masterful. Accessed 21 Apr. 2025.

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