What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
savant
Example
The young boy was a savant when it came to playing the piano. [savant: noun]
Example
She had a savant-like ability to recall every detail of the book she read. [savant-like: adjective]
mastermind
Example
He was the mastermind behind the bank heist. [mastermind: noun]
Example
The CEO was the mastermind behind the company's success. [mastermind: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Mastermind is more commonly used than savant in everyday language, and is more versatile in its usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between savant and mastermind?
Both savant and mastermind can be used in formal contexts, but savant is often associated with a more academic or intellectual tone, while mastermind can be used in a wider range of formality levels.