WordValevirtuoso
a performer of extraordinary technical skill
In more detail
1. (noun) a person who is highly skilled at playing a musical instrument
2. (noun) a person who is extremely skilled at any activity or subject
Examples
- 1. The pianist was a virtuoso who could play the most difficult classical pieces flawlessly.
- 2. She is a virtuoso at negotiating business deals.
How to use virtuoso
A virtuoso is someone with exceptional technical skill, typically acquired through intensive practice and talent. While expert is broader, virtuoso emphasizes brilliant execution and mastery, often with an element of artistry or brilliance. The term originally referred to musicians but now extends to any field requiring high skill.
Common phrases
- virtuoso performance
- musical virtuoso
- virtuoso pianist
- display of virtuosity
- technical virtuosity
Synonyms
master · expert · maestro · adept · prodigy
Opposites
amateur · novice · bungler
Word family
virtuosity (noun) · virtuosic (adjective) · virtuosically (adverb)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes use virtuoso when they simply mean someone who is good or competent at something; virtuoso implies elite-level skill and exceptional ability, not just basic proficiency.
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