Definition

Noun: A masterly or brilliant feat; an exceptionally skillful or impressive achievement or performance that demonstrates great ability or technique.

Usage

This noun describes an outstanding accomplishment that showcases extraordinary skill, effort, or artistry. It is often used to praise a work of art, a performance, a piece of writing, or any act requiring great expertise. It implies that the achievement is not only successful but also executed with remarkable brilliance and control.

Examples

• Her latest novel is a tour de force of historical fiction.
• The pianist's performance of the concerto was a true tour de force.
• The engineer's solution to the complex problem was a tour de force of innovation.
• The film is a technical tour de force, featuring groundbreaking special effects.

Advanced Usage

• The phrase can sometimes be used with a slightly ironic tone to describe something that is impressively extreme or exhaustive, though this is less common.
  • His three-hour lecture on maritime law was a tour de force of detail, if not of entertainment.

Variants and Related Words

• Feat (n.): An achievement that requires great courage, skill, or strength. (A more general term.)
• Masterpiece (n.): A work of outstanding artistry, skill, or workmanship. (Often refers specifically to a created object or work of art.)
• Coup (n.): A sudden, brilliant, and usually successful act or move.

Synonyms

• Masterpiece
• Magnum opus
• Triumph
• Crowning achievement
• Brilliant performance

Idioms and Related Phrases

• Piece de résistance: The most important or impressive feature of a creative work or series. (While similar, this often refers to the best part of something, whereas a describes the entire achievement as brilliant.)
  • The finale, with the full orchestra and choir, was the piece de résistance of an evening that was a complete tour de force.

Noun

1. a masterly or brilliant feat