Masterful Words is a valuable new reference for anyone who loves words, wants to expand their vocabulary, or needs to build their communications skills. Part I of the book teaches the basics of how prefixes and suffixes can determine the meaning of words. Examples used include benevolent and malevolent, xenophile and xenophobe. Part II explains the relationship between old words (usually Latin or Greek) and their modern English derivatives. More importantly, comparisons of the old meanings with the new ones illustrate why modern words have their meanings.

The book is organized so it is easy to use. Words are listed alphabetically. Definitions from standard sources appear on alternate pages, which also feature carefully designed sample sentences using the words in the most relevant practical situations. A pronunciation guide is also included. Quizzes appear periodically throughout Part II, allowing the reader to make sure that he or she fully understands what has been learned. This unique aspect of Masterful Words is just one of the characteristics that makes it one-of-a-kind in its field.