craftsmanship
KRAFTS-muhn-ship
/ˈkræftsmənʃɪp/
Skill in planning, making, or executing something; the quality of design and work shown in something made by hand.
Craftsmanship refers both to the abstract skill of the maker and the physical evidence of that skill in the finished object itself.
The story behind the word. In Old English, 'craft' originally meant strength or physical power. Over centuries, as society became more specialized, the meaning shifted from raw physical force to the refined power of the hands and mind working together to create beautiful things.
Word relationships
- workmanship: Workmanship is highly similar but can sometimes refer to the execution of a task (good or bad), whereas craftsmanship almost always implies high quality and artistry.
- artistry: Artistry emphasizes creative and aesthetic talent, while craftsmanship emphasizes technical skill and structural execution.
- shoddiness: Shoddiness refers to poorly made, careless, or cheap work, the exact opposite of craftsmanship.
Commonly confused with
- craftiness: Craftiness refers to deviousness, cunning, or slyness, whereas craftsmanship refers to physical skill and quality of work.
Word family
- craftsman (noun): A man who is highly skilled in a manual craft.
- craft (noun/verb): An activity involving skill in making things by hand; to make with skill.
Collocations
- fine craftsmanship
- exquisite craftsmanship
- traditional craftsmanship
- quality craftsmanship
Example sentences
- "The exquisite craftsmanship of the violin was evident in its rich, resonant tone and flawless varnish." Evaluating a high-quality musical instrument.
- "Modern architecture often lacks the detailed craftsmanship seen in the stone carvings of the nineteenth century." Discussing the value of old buildings.
Memory hook
Imagine a ship built with so much care that even the tiniest craft on it is perfect. That is craftsmanship. A perfect ship built with craft.
When not to use
Do not use to describe cheap, mass-produced items that show no individual care or structural integrity.
Fun facts
- The German cognate of craft is 'Kraft', which still means power or strength today, showing how the English word split off to mean artistic skill.
Explore more words
handicraft, artifact, artisanal, proficiency, adept, expertise
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