question master
LowFormal, British, Specialist
Definition
Meaning
The person who poses the questions and directs the proceedings of a quiz or panel game.
An official responsible for formulating and asking questions in a formal competition, often seen as the authoritative figure who guides the event and enforces its rules. Can also refer to someone skilled at questioning in a broader, less formal sense.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Almost exclusively used in the context of quizzes, game shows, and sometimes formal debates or interview panels. The term implies control and authority over the flow of questions and answers.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term is primarily British. In American English, 'quizmaster', 'game show host', or 'moderator' are the standard equivalents.
Connotations
In British English, it carries a formal, sometimes slightly old-fashioned connotation associated with traditional panel games (e.g., BBC's 'Ask the Family'). The American equivalents are more contemporary and media-focused.
Frequency
Uncommon in general American speech; 'quizmaster' is occasionally used but 'host' is dominant.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
(to) act as question master for [event](to) be appointed question masterThe question master [asked/declared/ruled].Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Rare; potentially in team-building quiz events.
Academic
Used in formal academic quizzes, competitions, or debate societies.
Everyday
Used when discussing or organising local pub quizzes, school events, or community competitions.
Technical
Specific to the field of game show production or trivia event organisation.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- Mr. Jones was the question master for our school quiz.
- The question master explained the rules clearly before the quiz began.
- As question master, she had to adjudicate on a disputed answer, consulting the rulebook.
- His impartiality and wit made him the most sought-after question master for prestigious university challenge competitions.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a MASTER who is in charge of the QUESTIONS. Like a schoolmaster tests students, the question master tests contestants.
Conceptual Metaphor
AUTHORITY IS MASTERY (The controller of the questions is the master of the game).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid direct calque 'вопрос мастер'. The role is not simply a 'мастер вопросов' but a ведущий викторины, модератор.
Common Mistakes
- Using 'question master' in general contexts to mean 'someone who is good at asking questions'.
- Using it as a job title in non-British contexts.
- Confusing it with 'master of ceremonies' (which is broader).
Practice
Quiz
In which variety of English is 'question master' the most common and natural term for a quiz host?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is very rare. Americans typically say 'quizmaster', 'game show host', or simply 'host'.
No, it is exclusively a noun referring to a role or person.
A 'question master' is specifically for quizzes/games, focused on asking questions. A 'moderator' facilitates discussion (e.g., in a debate or forum) and may not ask all the questions themselves.
It is formal and official within its specific context. For a casual quiz among friends, you might just say 'the person asking the questions' or 'quiz host'.