Virtuoso: meaning, definitions and examples

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virtuoso

[ˌvɜːrtʃuˈoʊsoʊ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

music

A person highly skilled in music or another artistic pursuit.

Synonyms

genius, maestro, prodigy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
virtuoso	Typically used for someone who has exceptional skill in music or the arts, often after years of practice. The violinist is a true virtuoso, captivating the audience with every performance
genius	Applied to someone with extraordinary intellectual or creative power, not limited to any specific field. Albert Einstein is often regarded as a genius for his groundbreaking contributions to physics
maestro	Commonly used for a distinguished conductor of music, or a master in a particular art, especially in classical music. The orchestra played under the baton of a renowned maestro, making the evening unforgettable
prodigy	Describes a young person who displays exceptional abilities or talents at an early age. The child piano prodigy amazed everyone with her complex compositions at just ten years old

Examples of usage

He was a virtuoso on the violin, captivating audiences with his performances.
Mozart was a child virtuoso, composing music at a very young age.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

general

A person highly skilled in a specific field or activity.

Synonyms

ace, expert, master.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
virtuoso	Use when referring to someone with outstanding skill, often in the arts, especially music. Implies not just competence, but exceptional artistic talent. She is a piano virtuoso, capable of playing the most challenging pieces effortlessly. The gallery featured the works of a virtuoso painter well-known for his intricate brushstrokes.
expert	Applicable in both formal and informal contexts to describe someone with a high level of knowledge or proficiency in a particular subject or field. Very versatile and general. He is an expert in cybersecurity, providing valuable insights to the company. We consulted several gardening experts before redesigning the backyard.
master	Refers to someone who has achieved a high level of skill through experience and training. Often used in the context of crafts, martial arts, or any domain requiring extensive practice over time. She is a master chef who has trained in the finest culinary schools. Only a master carpenter could create such intricate woodwork.
ace	Best used in informal settings to describe someone who is extremely good at what they do, often in sports or competitive activities. Slightly casual and modern. He's an ace pilot and has completed many successful missions. Our team is sure to win with her as our ace server.

Examples of usage

He was a virtuoso in the kitchen, creating culinary masterpieces.
She was a virtuoso in mathematics, solving complex problems effortlessly.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Italian 'virtuoso', meaning 'skilled' or 'expert', which itself derives from 'virtù', meaning 'virtue' or 'skill'.
It was first used in the late 17th century, originally referring to people who mastered the arts, particularly in music.
Interestingly, its use expanded from musicians to include anyone excelling in any art form.

Music History

Many well-known composers, such as Paganini and Liszt, are famous examples of virtuosos known for their incredible technical skills.
Virtuosos often perform difficult pieces that showcase their exceptional talents, sometimes leading to public admiration and fame.
In the classical world, being labeled a 'virtuoso' can create expectations of not just skill, but also the ability to connect emotionally with the audience.

Pop Culture

In films and TV, characters portrayed as virtuosos often embody traits of confidence, passion, and occasionally, arrogance.
One example is the movie 'Whiplash', which explores the intense world of young musicians striving for virtuosity.
Pop music also features virtuoso performers like Prince and Jimi Hendrix, known for their extraordinary guitar skills.

Psychology

Studies show that those identified as virtuosos often possess not just talent, but also extraordinary levels of focus and practice – sometimes 10,000 hours or more!
The concept of 'deliberate practice' plays a crucial role in developing skills to become a virtuoso, highlighting effort over innate talent.
Research indicates that emotional resilience and creativity are common characteristics among individuals who achieve virtuoso status.

Literature

In literature, the term is sometimes used metaphorically to describe writers or artists with exceptional talent in their fields.
There are several references to virtuoso characters in novels, often depicted as striving for perfection in their crafts.
Famous literary figures like Oscar Wilde and Virginia Woolf exemplified virtuosity in their writing, celebrated for their distinctive styles and skillful language.

Translations

Translations of the word "virtuoso" in other languages:

🇵🇹 virtuoso

🇮🇳 विरटुओसो

🇩🇪 Virtuose

🇮🇩 virtuoso

ahli
maestro

🇺🇦 віртуоз

🇵🇱 wirtuoz

🇯🇵 名人 (めいじん)

🇫🇷 virtuose

🇪🇸 virtuoso

🇹🇷 virtuöz

🇰🇷 명인 (명인)

🇸🇦 فنان بارع

🇨🇿 virtuóz

🇸🇰 virtuóz

🇨🇳 艺术大师 (yìshù dàshī)

🇸🇮 virtuoz

🇮🇸 snilldarlistamaður

🇰🇿 виртуоз

🇬🇪 ვირტუოზი (virtuozi)

🇦🇿 virtuoz

🇲🇽 virtuoso

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,069, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

...
22066 unscathed
22067 milked
22068 adder
22069 virtuoso
22070 impossibly
22071 oiling
22072 shrapnel
...