B1noun1K

Performance

UK /["/pəˈfɔːməns/"]/US /["/pərˈfɔːrməns/"]/

Definition

the act of performing a play, concert or some other form of entertainment

In simple words: How well someone does something, especially in a play or a competition.

Examples

  • The performance of the team improved significantly after the new coach was hired.
  • She delivered a stunning performance that left the audience in awe.
  • We need to evaluate the performance of the new software before making a decision.
  • His performance in the competition earned him a gold medal.
  • The teacher assessed the performance of each student on their final project.

Usage notes

Use 'performance' when discussing shows, competitions, or work output. It's neutral, suitable for both casual and formal settings, but avoid in very casual contexts.

Grammar pattern

performance + of + subject

Memory hint

Think of 'perform' as being on stage, and 'performance' as the show!

Collocations

  • live
  • public
  • evening
  • give
  • put on
  • stage
  • feature somebody/​something
  • art
  • poetry
  • artist
  • in performance
  • brilliant
  • convincing
  • dazzling
  • deliver
  • give
  • produce
  • benchmark
  • indicator
  • level
  • performance as
  • performance from
  • performance on
  • a level of performance
  • a measure of performance
  • a standard of performance
  • high
  • maximum
  • optimal
  • affect
  • influence
  • assess
  • boost

Synonyms

  • carry-on

Antonyms

  • failure
  • inactivity

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'performancer,' which is incorrect.
  • Using 'performance' as a verb instead of a noun.
  • Confusing types of performance, like sports vs. arts.