Mastermind: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is best used when referring to someone who is the key planner or the person behind a complex scheme or project. It often carries a connotation of ingenuity and strategic thinking. However, it can sometimes have a negative connotation if the scheme is illegal or unethical.

• The mastermind behind the successful merger was praised at the company's annual meeting.
• The police arrested the mastermind of the heist after months of investigation.

This word refers to someone who has exceptional intellectual or creative power, often in a specific area. It has a very positive connotation and is used to highlight extraordinary talent or intelligence.

• Albert Einstein is widely regarded as a genius for his contributions to physics.
• Her genius in painting became evident at a very young age.

Use this term when describing someone who has a high level of skill or knowledge in a particular area. It is neutral and can be applied across various fields and disciplines.

• She is an expert in cybersecurity and often speaks at international conferences.
• We need an expert to solve this complicated issue with the software.

This word is used to describe someone who has exceptional technical skill in a particular activity, especially in the arts. It often carries a sense of admiration for the person's skill and dedication.

• The young violinist is considered a virtuoso, mesmerizing audiences with her performances.
• He is a virtuoso on the piano, able to play the most complex pieces effortlessly.

This term is most commonly used in the context of music, to refer to a distinguished conductor or composer. It denotes high respect and is often reserved for those with exceptional skills and achievements in music.

• The audience gave a standing ovation to the maestro after the outstanding performance.
• As a maestro, her influence on classical music is unparalleled.

As mentioned earlier, this term often portrays someone with superior intellect and strategic planning abilities, often used for both positive and negative connotations.

• She masterminded the entire philanthropic campaign to raise funds for the school
• The infamous criminal masterminded several bank robberies

Typically used in a negative context to refer to the person who leads or incites a group to engage in unlawful or disruptive activities.

• The police identified him as the ringleader of the riot
• The teacher quickly realized who the ringleader of the classroom prank was

Best used in the context of someone who designs buildings or structures, or figuratively, someone who constructs plans or structures in any field.

• She is the lead architect designing the new museum
• As the architect of the new marketing strategy, he was praised for his innovative ideas

Popular in informal speech to refer to the person who is the intellectual force or the most intelligent member of a group, often implying cleverness.

• She's the brains behind the operation
• In the group project, Tom was clearly the brains, while others handled the execution