What is performance? Pronunciation and usage in English

Let's break down how to use the word "performance" in English. It's a surprisingly versatile word with multiple meanings! Here's a breakdown, categorized for clarity:

1. As a Noun (Things that are done):

• Entertainment Performances: This is probably the most common usage.

  • "The performance of the rock band was amazing!" (Referring to their live show)
  • "We saw a brilliant theatrical performance last night."
  • "The circus offers a variety of performances – acrobats, clowns, and animal acts."
  • "She's a talented dancer; her performance was full of energy."

• Skills & Abilities: "Performance" can refer to how well someone does something, regardless of whether it's public.

  • "His performance on the exam was disappointing." (He did poorly)
  • "The engine's performance needs to be improved." (The engine isn't running well)
  • "The company's performance last year was strong." (Referring to financial results)
  • "Her performance as a salesperson has been excellent this quarter."

• Work/Activity: Sometimes it describes an ongoing activity.

  • "The software performance is slow today." (Meaning it's running badly)
  • "The team’s performance throughout the season was impressive."

2. As a Verb (To Carry Out):

• To Execute/Present: This is when you're talking about delivering something – a speech, a play, a show, etc.

  • "The actor will perform the role of Hamlet."
  • "She will perform her duties as CEO."
  • “The band will perform their new album during the concert.”

• To Operate/Function: Used with machines or systems.

  • "The computer performed flawlessly during the test."
  • “The engine is designed to perform efficiently at high altitudes.”

• To Act (in a play or movie):

  • “He performed in several local theater productions.”

3. Related Concepts – Often Used Alongside “Performance”:

• Performance Review: (“Your performance review is scheduled for next week.”) – This refers to an assessment of your work.
• Performance Metrics: ( “We’re tracking key performance metrics to see how we’re doing.”) – Quantifiable measures of how well something is functioning. (e.g., sales figures, website traffic, customer satisfaction).
• Performance Art: A genre of art that emphasizes the process of creation and presentation rather than a fixed product.

Tips for Using "Performance" Correctly:

• Context is Key: The meaning of “performance” depends entirely on the context.
• Synonyms: Consider using synonyms to avoid repetition: execution, achievement, result, operation, delivery, display.
• Formal vs. Informal: "Performance" is generally more formal than words like “doing” or “acting.”

Examples Combining Different Usages:

• "The orchestra gave a stunning performance – a truly remarkable performance!" (Both noun – the show - and a description of how well it was done.)
• "The CEO’s performance during the crisis was praised by investors." (Noun - her actions/results)
• “The new engine performed exceptionally well in the test.” (Verb – it functioned well).

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To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

• What kind of context are you thinking about using "performance" in? (e.g., work, school, arts, technology)
• Can you give me an example sentence you’re trying to write?