past master - Definition & Meaning

an expert in a particular field with a great deal of experiencean expert in a particular field with a great deal of experience

The idiom "past master" originated in the context of various trade guilds and fraternities during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. In these organizations, individuals progressed through a series of stages or degrees of skill and knowledge. When a person had achieved the highest degree or level of mastery, they were known as a "past master." This phrase recognized their experience, knowledge, and expertise within the guild or fraternity. This expression is used to describe someone who is highly skilled, experienced, or knowledgeable in a particular field or activity. It indicates a person who has achieved a level of expertise that goes beyond being merely competent; they are considered a true master in their domain.The idiom "past master" originated in the context of various trade guilds and fraternities during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. In these organizations, individuals progressed through a series of stages or degrees of skill and knowledge. When a person had achieved the highest degree or level of mastery, they were known as a "past master." This phrase recognized their experience, knowledge, and expertise within the guild or fraternity. This expression is used to describe someone who is highly skilled, experienced, or knowledgeable in a particular field or activity. It indicates a person who has achieved a level of expertise that goes beyond being merely competent; they are considered a true master in their domain.

例句

John is a past master at chess, and he rarely loses a game.
约翰是国际象棋的过去大师，他很少输掉比赛。
As a past master of diplomacy, she skillfully negotiated the international treaty.
作为外交领域的老手，她巧妙地谈判了国际条约。
The artist is a past master in the use of watercolors, creating stunning landscapes.
这位艺术家在水彩画的使用上是一位过去的大师，创造出令人惊叹的风景。