a convincing performance

USAGE SUMMARY

"a convincing performance" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to describe an impressive performance, for example: "The actor gave a convincing performance in the lead role of the play."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Anything less than a convincing performance is unacceptable.

The Guardian - Sport

Kelly's great gift went far beyond a convincing performance as a down-and-out sad sack.

Britannica

He thought he could deliver a convincing performance and put a swift end to the probe.

The Washington Post

Yet this wasn't a convincing performance, either from Neymar or Brazil.

The Guardian - Sport

And a convincing performance once removed is not what a television campaign needs.

The New York Times

Dr. T. Berry Brazelton was giving a convincing performance, one honed from decades of studying the behavior of babies.

The New York Times

The concert concluded on a similarly somber note, with a convincing performance by the bright-voiced soprano Natasha Uspensky.

The New York Times - Arts

"Since the start of the season our squad system has worked well, but this was still a convincing performance tonight.

The Guardian - Sport

Mr. Jacobi gives a convincing performance, but the most intriguing aspect of the film is its look.

The New York Times

Stoppard has much to say through Henry's character, and Collins gave a convincing performance, leaving the minds of the audience racing even after the curtain call.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

This makes a certain amount of sense, since the most famous Terminator was played by Arnold Schwarzenegger, who later gave a convincing performance as governor of California.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing reviews, use "a convincing performance" to highlight when a performance went above and beyond expectations.

Common error

Avoid using "a convincing performance" in contexts where the subject's intent is not to persuade or impress. For instance, describing a natural event or an object's function as a performance might be inappropriate.

Linguistic Context

"A convincing performance" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It characterizes the quality of an action, presentation, or portrayal, emphasizing its effectiveness in persuading or impressing an audience. Ludwig AI confirms its standard usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Academia

15%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Science

3%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a convincing performance" is a versatile noun phrase used to describe an action, portrayal, or presentation that successfully achieves its intended effect by creating a sense of authenticity or credibility. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and widely used across diverse contexts, particularly in news and media. When using this phrase, consider the specific nuance you want to convey and choose it when you want to emphasize believability and effectiveness. Avoid overusing it in contexts where the subject's intent is not to persuade or impress. The related phrases, such as ""an impressive display"" or ""a compelling portrayal"", offer alternative ways to express similar ideas, each with slightly different connotations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an impressive display

Emphasizes the visual and noteworthy aspect of the performance.

a compelling portrayal

Highlights the captivating and persuasive nature of the performance.

a masterful rendition

Focuses on the high level of skill and expertise involved in the performance.

an effective presentation

Stresses the successful communication of ideas or information.

a persuasive argument

Highlights the ability of the performance to influence or convince.

a credible act

Focuses on the believability and authenticity of the performance.

a plausible display

Emphasizes the reasonableness and likelihood of the performance.

a noteworthy exhibition

Highlights the remarkable and significant nature of the performance.

a remarkable show

Focuses on the outstanding and memorable quality of the performance.

a sterling effort

Highlights the excellent and commendable nature of the performance.

FAQs

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

"A convincing performance" is typically used to describe someone or something that effectively persuades or impresses. For example, "The lawyer delivered "a convincing performance" in court, winning the case for her client".

What are some alternatives to "a convincing performance"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "an impressive display", "a compelling portrayal", or "an effective presentation".

Is it better to say "convincing performance" or "persuasive performance"?

While both "convincing performance" and "persuasive performance" can be used, "convincing performance" often emphasizes the believability and authenticity of the act, whereas "persuasive performance" highlights the ability to influence someone's opinion. The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Can "a convincing performance" apply to non-human entities?

Yes, it can, although it's less common. You might use "a convincing performance" to describe a machine or algorithm that effectively mimics human behavior or produces a desired outcome that seems authentic. The key is whether it creates a sense of believability or effectiveness.