chef-d'oeuvre
/ʃei'də:vr/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: - A masterpiece; the most outstanding work of a creative artist or craftsman: This term refers to a work of exceptional artistry, skill, or workmanship, considered the pinnacle of an artist's or creator's career.
Usage
The word "chef-d'oeuvre" is a formal, artistic term used to describe a singularly brilliant creation. It is often used in discussions of fine art, literature, music, and high craftsmanship. It is a French loanword adopted into English and retains its original French plural form.
Examples
- Many critics consider that novel to be the author's chef-d'oeuvre.
- The intricate clock was the watchmaker's chef-d'oeuvre, taking over a decade to complete.
- The museum's new exhibition features several chefs-d'oeuvre from the Renaissance period.
Advanced Usage
- "To be hailed as a chef-d'oeuvre": To be publicly acclaimed or recognized as a masterpiece.
- The film was immediately hailed as a chef-d'oeuvre of modern cinema.
- "A veritable chef-d'oeuvre": Used for emphasis to mean a true or unquestionable masterpiece.
- The restoration revealed the fresco to be a veritable chef-d'oeuvre.
Variants and Related Words
- Masterpiece (n): The most common English synonym for "chef-d'oeuvre," meaning an outstanding work.
- Magnum opus (n): A Latin term meaning "great work," often used interchangeably with "chef-d'oeuvre," though it can sometimes refer specifically to the largest or most important work of an artist's lifetime.
- Tour de force (n): A feat of strength or skill; a performance or achievement that has been accomplished with great skill. While similar, it emphasizes the demonstration of skill more than the status as a definitive greatest work.
Synonyms
- Masterpiece
- Magnum opus
- Pièce de résistance (though this can also refer to the best item in a series or collection, such as the main dish of a meal)
- Jewel
- Crowning achievement
Notes on Form
- Plural Form: The correct plural is chefs-d'oeuvre. The anglicized plural "chef-d'oeuvres" is sometimes seen but is considered less correct.
- Pronunciation: /ˌʃeɪ ˈdɜːvr(ə)/ (shay-DURV-ruh).
Noun
- the most outstanding work of a creative artist or craftsman