a competent performance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a competent performance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a performance that meets the required standards or expectations in a particular context, such as a presentation, a sports event, or a theatrical performance. Example: "The actor delivered a competent performance, impressing the audience with his ability to convey emotion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

It's a competent performance without a strong point of view.

The New York Times

Alfredo Casella's long-winded Neo-Classical Symphony No. 3 concluded the program in a competent performance.

The New York Times - Arts

Winning a Best Actress award for a competent performance in Shakespeare In Love, Paltrow ruined it with a hammy display of false emotion.

The Guardian

Yes, there is a great degree to which these works embody so much inherent excitement, drama and sheer locomotion that a competent performance cannot go far wrong.

The New York Times - Arts

It is an especially well photographed work.Miss Landis gives a competent performance in a rôle that is hardly fitted to her gentle personality.

The New York Times

On a technical level it's a competent performance, though Mr. van Immerseel's claim that the small orchestra allows for greater precision in rhythm and intonation is already belied by the results in the first movement.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

His rendition of the four Schubert impromptus sounded like a highly competent performance by a seasoned professional, but the interpretation wasn't particularly distinctive or probing.

The New York Times - Arts

They fear that their current advantage could melt away in the event of a solid return to growth and a more competent performance by the coalition.

The Guardian - Opinion

The Gore team worries that Mr. Bush will get excessive credit for a merely competent performance.

The New York Times

He gave a quiet, competent performance, masterfully deflecting questions about future products and reminding us imitating Steve Jobs definitely isn't the way forward.

The Guardian - Tech

All round a strong, competent performance leaving the audience with the feeling of hope that he understands the current difficulties and challenges and will lead us all to sunnier uplands.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a performance, consider the specific aspect you want to highlight. Use "a competent performance" when emphasizing the basic level of skill and meeting expectations, rather than exceptional talent.

Common error

Avoid using "a competent performance" when the situation requires highlighting exceptional skill or artistry. Opt for phrases like "an outstanding performance" or "a remarkable display" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a competent performance" functions as a noun phrase, where "competent" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "performance". Ludwig AI indicates that it is generally used to describe a performance that meets the required standards.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

45%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a competent performance" describes an act or execution of a task that meets the expected level of skill, as verified by Ludwig AI. It's a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase, fitting into various contexts ranging from news reporting to scientific discussions. While it conveys adequacy, it doesn't necessarily indicate exceptional skill. If a higher degree of proficiency is required, consider using alternatives like "an excellent performance" or "a remarkable display". Remember to consider whether exceptional talent must be emphasized or is it enough to describe a performance that meets the basic level of skill and fulfilling expectations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a capable performance

Replaces "competent" with "capable", emphasizing the inherent ability to perform well.

a skillful performance

Substitutes "competent" with "skillful", highlighting the expertise demonstrated in the performance.

a satisfactory performance

Replaces "competent" with "satisfactory", focusing on the fulfillment of requirements or expectations.

an adequate performance

Substitutes "competent" with "adequate", suggesting the performance meets the minimum necessary standards.

a professional performance

Replaces "competent" with "professional", indicating a performance of high quality and expertise.

a creditable performance

Swaps "competent" with "creditable", implying the performance deserves recognition or praise.

a decent performance

Substitutes "competent" with "decent", suggesting an acceptable and respectable performance.

a respectable performance

Replaces "competent" with "respectable", highlighting the positive regard earned by the performance.

an acceptable performance

Substitutes "competent" with "acceptable", focusing on the fact that performance fulfills the minimum requirements and is satisfactory.

a solid performance

Replaces "competent" with "solid", meaning the performance is reliable and dependable.

FAQs

How can I use "a competent performance" in a sentence?

You can use "a competent performance" to describe someone fulfilling the basic requirements of a task or role, for example: "The new employee delivered "a competent performance" during the training session".

What's a more positive alternative to "a competent performance"?

If you want to express a higher level of achievement, consider using phrases like "an excellent performance", "an outstanding achievement", or "a remarkable display".

Is "a competent performance" always a positive thing to say?

While generally positive, "a competent performance" can sometimes imply a lack of exceptional skill. Context is key; it's important to consider whether the situation warrants higher praise.

What is the difference between "a competent performance" and "a capable performance"?

"A competent performance" suggests meeting the required standards, while "a capable performance" emphasizes the inherent ability to perform well, implying potential for even greater achievement.