Acting: meaning, definitions and examples

General term used for the act of performing in plays, movies, television, or other live performances.

• She has been acting in movies since she was a child
• His acting in the play was highly praised

Refers to the act of presenting a play, concert, or other form of entertainment to an audience. Can also refer to the quality of how something is done.

• Her performance in the ballet was captivating
• The band gave an unforgettable performance last night

Refers to a genre of storytelling, typically involving emotional and intense situations. Can also refer to a performance of such stories.

• The drama of the film kept everyone on the edge of their seats
• She is studying drama in college

Typically refers to exaggerated, theatrical behavior intended to attract attention or create an effect; often used with a slightly negative connotation.

• His unnecessary theatrics at the meeting were distracting
• She added some theatrics to her storytelling to make it more engaging

Describes the craft or profession of performing in plays, films, or television.

• She studied acting at the best drama school in the country

Refers broadly to the act of performing a task, role, or piece of art, can relate to both entertainment and work.

• Her performance in the school play was outstanding
• The software's performance has improved significantly with the new update

Implies carrying out a task, plan, or command, often in a precise or efficient manner. It can also have a negative connotation when referring to carrying out a death sentence.

• The execution of the new policy took several months
• The prisoners faced execution at dawn

Describes the act of pretending to be someone else, often for entertainment or deception.

• His impersonation of the famous singer had everyone laughing

Used to describe the profession or performance of an actor on stage, in movies, or on television.

• She has been acting in theater since she was a child.
• His acting in the latest film received critical acclaim.

Used when someone is making something appear true that is not, in casual or everyday situations.

• The kids were pretending to be superheroes.
• She is pretending that she doesn't care.

Used when someone is trying to deceive others by pretending something that is not true. Often has a negative connotation.

• He was faking illness to skip school.
• Her happiness was just faking; she was actually very sad.

Used in a more formal context to describe pretending to be affected by something, usually to deceive.

• He is feigning surprise to avoid suspicion.
• She feigned injury to get out of the race.