Masterstroke: meaning, definitions and examples

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masterstroke

 

[ ˈmɑːstərstroʊk ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

strategic move

A masterstroke refers to a brilliant or highly skillful action, especially in a strategic context. It implies a level of expertise that is both impressive and effective. Often, it is used in discussions about art, business, politics, or sports, where a single action can turn the tide of events in favor of the person executing it. A masterstroke indicates foresight, ingenuity, and a deep understanding of the situation at hand.

Synonyms

brilliant move, clever tactic, ingenious act, stroke of genius

Examples of usage

  • The CEO's decision was a masterstroke that saved the company.
  • His masterstroke during the debate won him the election.
  • The artist’s latest painting was a masterstroke of creativity.
  • They executed a masterstroke in the negotiation process.

Translations

Translations of the word "masterstroke" in other languages:

🇵🇹 jogada magistral

🇮🇳 मास्टरस्ट्रोक

🇩🇪 Meisterstück

🇮🇩 langkah jenius

🇺🇦 майстерний хід

🇵🇱 mistrzowski ruch

🇯🇵 マスターストローク

🇫🇷 coup de maître

🇪🇸 jugada maestra

🇹🇷 ustalık hamlesi

🇰🇷 마스터 스트로크

🇸🇦 ضربة ماستر

🇨🇿 mistrovský tah

🇸🇰 majstrovský ťah

🇨🇳 大师之举

🇸🇮 močan udarec

🇮🇸 meistarakstur

🇰🇿 шеберлік қадамы

🇬🇪 მასტერკი

🇦🇿 ustad hərəkət

🇲🇽 movimiento maestro

Etymology

The term 'masterstroke' originates from the combination of two words: 'master' and 'stroke'. The word 'master' has roots in Old English 'mægester', which refers to a person who has control or authority over something, often implying great skill or expertise in a particular field. 'Stroke', on the other hand, can be traced back to Old English 'strōc', meaning a 'blow' or 'stroke' as in a movement or action. Together, the term 'masterstroke' emerged in the late 19th century, particularly within contexts like the arts, sports, and politics to describe actions that were exceptionally skillful or strategically advantageous. Its usage has heightened over the years to signify not just skill, but also an action that is pivotal in achieving success.