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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak quote

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com

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A masterpiece in the making

Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a masterpiece in the making" is correct and usable in written English
It can be used to describe something that is in the process of being created and has the potential to be exceptional or outstanding.
Example: "The artist's latest painting is truly a masterpiece in the making, showcasing her evolving style and technique."
Alternatives: "a work in progress" or "a future classic"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

"Each one of us is a masterpiece in the making," he added, cupping his hands in front of him.

News & Media

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Besides, any book that is touted as a "masterpiece," "long-awaited," and "twenty years in the making" can't be all bad if it turns out to be just a neat hundred and eighty-six pages long.

News & Media

The New Yorker

This time... we are going backwards, moving from the present day to the distant past, from classics in the making to outright masterpieces.

I have not seen the will to make a masterpiece in American art.

If more is needed to make a masterpiece in modern American fiction, I am sure I don't know what it is' - Tennessee Williams on Revolutionary Road.

A labor of some two years, "The Clock" was hailed as a masterpiece when it made its debut at the White Cube gallery in London last fall.

A masterpiece in simplicity, [it] reaches toward the sublime".

The iPhone is more like a masterpiece in which every little detail has been meticulously defined.

News & Media

TechCrunch

Ferntree Gully in the Dandenong Ranges on this month's cover was hailed a masterpiece in its day.

"A masterpiece in automotive design and engineering.

News & Media

The New York Times

In the "Make 'Em Laugh" number, Donald O'Connor pulls out every stock vaudeville bit to create a comic masterpiece.

News & Media

The New York Times
Show more...

Expert writing Tips

✓ Best practice

Use "a masterpiece in the making" when you want to highlight both the current state of development and the potential for exceptional quality in the future.

⚠ Common error

Avoid using "a masterpiece in the making" to describe mundane or ordinary projects. Reserve it for situations where there's genuine potential for exceptional quality or artistry.

Antonio Rotolo, PhD - Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a masterpiece in the making" functions as a noun phrase that describes something currently under development but possessing the potential to become an exceptional work of art or skill. Ludwig examples highlight its use in contexts where potential is being recognized.

Expression frequency: Rare

✓ Frequent in

News & Media

100%

⚠ Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a masterpiece in the making" is a powerful expression used to describe something currently being developed that has the potential to achieve exceptional quality. As Ludwig highlights, its usage is grammatically correct and appropriate in contexts where optimism and anticipation are desired. Although relatively rare, it is most frequently found in news and media sources. When using this phrase, reserve it for projects genuinely showing artistic or skillful merit to avoid trivializing its impact. Remember, it suggests not just progress, but the promise of future excellence.

FAQs

How can I use "a masterpiece in the making" in a sentence?

You can use "a masterpiece in the making" to describe something that is currently being created and shows great promise of becoming exceptional. For example, "Her latest novel is truly "a masterpiece in the making", showcasing her incredible storytelling ability".

What are some alternatives to "a masterpiece in the making"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "a work in progress", "an emerging masterpiece", or "a potential masterpiece".

When is it appropriate to use "a masterpiece in the making"?

It's appropriate to use "a masterpiece in the making" when you want to convey that something is not yet complete but has the potential to be outstanding or exceptional. It implies a positive trajectory and high expectations.

What's the difference between "a work in progress" and "a masterpiece in the making"?

"A work in progress" simply indicates that something is not finished, while ""a masterpiece in the making"" suggests that it has the potential to be exceptionally good or significant. The latter carries a stronger connotation of quality and artistry.

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Real-world application tested

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