self-mastery

A person practices self-mastery by remaining calm during a difficult task.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • Control over one's own impulses and emotions: "self-mastery" refers to the ability to govern or regulate one's own desires, feelings, and actions through willpower and discipline. It implies a state of inner strength and composure.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Achieving self-mastery is a lifelong process for many people. (Gaining full control over one's actions and emotions.)
  • The monk's self-mastery allowed him to remain calm in the face of great adversity. (His ability to control his reactions.)
  • Through meditation, she developed a remarkable degree of self-mastery. (A high level of self-control.)

Advanced Usage

• "to cultivate self-mastery": to actively develop and strengthen one's control over oneself.

  • He practiced daily habits to cultivate self-mastery over his temper. (He worked to improve his emotional regulation.)

• "a lack of self-mastery": the absence or deficiency of self-control.

  • Her lack of self-mastery led to impulsive spending. (She could not control her spending urges.)

Variants and Related Words

• Self-mastered (adj): having achieved self-mastery.

  • The self-mastered individual rarely gives in to temptation. (A person with strong self-control.)

• Mastery (n): comprehensive knowledge or skill in a subject or activity; also, control or dominance.

  • He gained mastery of the piano after years of practice. (Expert skill.)
  • The master's mastery over his emotions was evident. (Control.)

Synonyms

• Self-control: the ability to restrain one's emotions or desires.
• Self-discipline: the ability to control one's feelings and overcome one's weaknesses.
• Willpower: the strength to control one's actions and decisions.
• Composure: the state of being calm and in control of oneself.

Related Idioms

• "to have a firm grip on oneself": to maintain strong self-control.

  • Even in the crisis, she had a firm grip on herself, showing great self-mastery. (She did not lose composure.)

• "to keep one's cool": to stay calm and not become angry or upset.

  • Keeping your cool in an argument requires self-mastery. (Requires emotional control.)

Phrasal Verbs (Not directly applicable)

No common phrasal verbs are formed with "self-mastery." However, the noun can be used with verbs like "achieve," "develop," "demonstrate," or "lose."