What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
prodigy
Example
Mozart was a musical prodigy who composed his first piece at the age of five. [prodigy: noun]
Example
She is a prodigious artist, creating stunning works of art at such a young age. [prodigious: adjective]
mastermind
Example
He was the mastermind behind the company's successful marketing campaign. [mastermind: noun]
Example
She masterminded the entire project, from conception to execution. [masterminded: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Mastermind is more commonly used than prodigy in everyday language. Mastermind is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while prodigy is less common and refers specifically to young people with exceptional talent.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between prodigy and mastermind?
Both prodigy and mastermind are formal words that are typically used in professional or academic contexts. However, mastermind is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while prodigy is more specialized and is typically used in formal contexts.
