Quick question.. masterclass, master-class, master class or..?

In the U.S., it would be two words; Master Class.

Thanks a lot for the information both I'll definitely be sure to use the two-word non-hyphenated version.

Funny how these subtle little USA-UK differences are always there.

Tristan,

To be honest I would not recommend any variation of Master Class. Here's my reasons why:

1) The word class can remind your prospects that when they were in class, they were frequently given homeWORK. Prospects rarely buy something that creates more work for them.

2) Master class can have the meaning of being part of the upper class or elite group. Now if that ties into the first part of your title and what you're offering, that's okay. But I don't think it's the most compelling option.

I'd pick a title that focuses on one of the most desired benefits that your product delivers. For example, if it's List Building then I could do something like:

List Building Secrets
Power List Building
Lightening-Fast List Building

The list (no pun intended) of compelling product names is almost limitless.

Take care,

Mike

Thanks for the replies Hugh and Mike, some great information there

Mike, I'll PM you quickly now about those title suggestions, if that's okay

Go with Masterclass!

Look at the success of Masterchef. I know it's a UK show but I think the word is becoming recognized worldwide.

What about the word "masterpiece"? You never see master-piece or some other variation. Have trust in precedents.

And I respectfully disagree with Mike about any "elitist" connotation. Again, look at the success of Masterchef. Do you think people see it as elitist? Nah...

'Masterpiece' refers to a top-quality work of some kind. It can also be used to refer to more than one item in a category, ie Picasso's masterpieces.
'Master piece'? Never heard the term, but it would suggest that there is one single piece that is most important above all others.
If your class is most important above all others, use the two-word version.

Just because someone else uses a term, that doesn't make it a good idea for you to do the same. Precedents are not always right or intelligent. People are more and more often using terms, like 'conversate' or 'less taxes', as if they were proper English.

They are not. Please do not try to argue this point.

If you would like to talk with someone, you may 'converse' with them. If you want to pay out less money to the government, you either pay 'fewer taxes' or 'less tax'. One refers the the number of tax laws; the other to the amount of money.

If you want to try to create new words, go with 'masterclass'. It certainly doesn't seem to be in the dictionary. On the other hand, if you don't want people to question your level of education (due to the use of non-existent words), or to mentally stumble as they read your copy, don't use it.

When it comes to marketing, you could make the argument that creating a new word could somehow differentiate your product from the rest, and that's one of the primary goals. On the other hand, anything that makes your prospect hesitate, or question meaning, should be avoided if possible.

Just my 2cts.

There are of course exceptions within certain niches.

"Masterclass" carries a certain connotation in some markets... off the top of my head I can think of cooking and music.

In those markets... "masterclass" may actually work well because it has that pre-existing "market value"... people see the word and instantly equate it as a valuable thing.

In other markets though... maybe not so much.

Just thought I'd throw my opinion in.

-Dan