Inklingo

How to Say "mastery" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “mastery” is “dominio” — use 'dominio' when referring to a high level of skill or expertise in a particular area, like a language or an art form.

English → Spanish

dominio

doh-MEE-nyohdoˈmi.njo

nounB2general
Use 'dominio' when referring to a high level of skill or expertise in a particular area, like a language or an art form.
A large, powerful hand firmly grasping a golden scepter or staff, symbolizing authority and control.

Examples

Su dominio del piano impresionó a todos en la sala.

His mastery of the piano impressed everyone in the room.

El rey tenía dominio absoluto sobre todo el territorio.

The king had absolute control over the entire territory.

Establecer un dominio completo sobre el mercado es su objetivo.

Establishing complete control over the market is their goal.

Para este puesto se requiere un dominio total del software de edición.

This position requires complete proficiency in the editing software.

Masculine Noun Rule

Remember that 'dominio' is always a masculine noun, so it takes masculine articles: 'el dominio' or 'un dominio'.

Using 'de' to Specify Skill

When talking about mastery of something, you almost always follow 'dominio' with the word 'de' (of): 'dominio del tema' (mastery of the topic).

control

kon-trolkonˈtɾol

nounB1general
Use 'control' when you mean command or direct influence over a situation, project, or person.
A giant, powerful human hand gently but firmly holding and directing a small, colorful wooden toy block, symbolizing power and command.

Examples

El nuevo gerente tiene el control total del proyecto.

The new manager has total control of the project.

Es importante mantener el control en situaciones de estrés.

It's important to maintain control in stressful situations.

Perdió el control del coche en el hielo.

He lost control of the car on the ice.

Always Masculine

Even though it doesn't end in -o, 'control' is a masculine word. Always say 'el control' or 'un control', not 'la control'.

dominación

nounB2general
Choose 'dominación' to describe control exerted over a group, territory, or situation, often implying power or subjugation.

Examples

Muchos países lucharon para terminar con la dominación colonial.

Many countries fought to end colonial rule.

cátedra

nounC1general
Use 'cátedra' specifically when someone demonstrates their expertise by teaching or explaining something with great authority and skill, often in a public or performative way.

Examples

Ese futbolista dio una cátedra de cómo jugar en equipo.

That soccer player gave a master class on how to play as a team.

Skill vs. Situation Control

The most common confusion is between 'dominio' and 'control'. Remember that 'dominio' is often used for a high level of skill (like mastering a language), while 'control' refers more to managing or having power over a situation or project.

Related Translations

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