Performances: meaning, definitions and examples

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performances

 

[ pərˈfɔːrmənsɪz ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

live entertainment

Performances refer to live shows or events where artists, musicians, actors, or dancers showcase their talents to an audience. Performances can include music concerts, theater plays, dance recitals, stand-up comedy shows, and more.

Synonyms

displays, presentations, shows.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
performances

Typically used to refer to artistic or entertainment acts, such as plays, concerts, or dances.

  • The band's performances were incredible at the music festival
  • The local theater group had three performances this weekend
shows

Refers broadly to entertainment events, both live and recorded, such as TV programs, theater plays, and concerts.

  • We watched several comedy shows last night
  • The children enjoyed the puppet show at the fair
displays

Used when referring to objects or exhibitions not involving live acts, often in the context of art, products, or talents.

  • The museum's displays of ancient artifacts were fascinating
  • The shop had beautiful displays of their new clothing line in the window
presentations

This word is commonly used in educational, professional, or formal settings where information is delivered to an audience.

  • Her presentation on climate change was very informative
  • The CEO's presentation on the company's future plans was well-received by the employees

Examples of usage

  • I was blown away by the performances at the concert last night.
  • The theater's performances always receive rave reviews from critics.
  • Her dance performances are known for their grace and precision.
Context #2 | Noun

achievement

Performances can also refer to the execution of a task or action, especially in a professional or competitive setting. It can indicate the level of success or skill demonstrated when carrying out a specific activity or job.

Synonyms

accomplishments, achievements, results.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
performances

Used when talking about how well someone did in a specific activity, such as sports, arts, or any task. It focuses on the quality or style of execution.

  • Her performances in the dance competition were outstanding
  • The athlete's performances this season have been inconsistent
accomplishments

Refers to completed goals or successful tasks that required effort and skill. Often used to discuss someone's life achievements or milestones.

  • Graduating from university is one of his greatest accomplishments
  • She listed her professional accomplishments in her resume
achievements

Highlights successful outcomes or completed aims, typically emphasizing the attainment of something significant. Used in both personal and professional contexts.

  • Winning the Nobel Prize was a remarkable achievement
  • He celebrated his achievements in the tech industry
results

Focuses on the outcomes or consequences of an action or series of actions. Can be used in a broad range of situations including academics, medical tests, and experimentations.

  • The results of the experiment were surprising
  • Her test results were better than expected

Examples of usage

  • Her performances in the company's sales department have been outstanding this quarter.
  • The team's performances on the field have been consistently impressive throughout the season.

Translations

Translations of the word "performances" in other languages:

🇵🇹 performances

🇮🇳 प्रदर्शन

🇩🇪 Aufführungen

🇮🇩 penampilan

🇺🇦 виступи

🇵🇱 występy

🇯🇵 パフォーマンス

🇫🇷 performances

🇪🇸 actuaciones

🇹🇷 performanslar

🇰🇷 공연

🇸🇦 عروض

🇨🇿 výkony

🇸🇰 výkony

🇨🇳 表演

🇸🇮 nastopi

🇮🇸 frammistöður

🇰🇿 өнерпаздықтар

🇬🇪 შესრულებები

🇦🇿 ifaçılıqlar

🇲🇽 actuaciones

Etymology

The word 'performances' originated from the Middle English word 'performen', which comes from the Old French word 'parfournir', meaning 'to carry out fully'. The term has evolved over time to encompass various aspects of live entertainment and professional execution of tasks.

See also: outperform, outperforming, perform, performability, performable, performance, performer, performers, performing, underperformance, underperformer.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,563 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.