a fine performance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a fine performance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a high-quality or impressive act, typically in the context of arts, sports, or any performance-related activity. Example: "The audience was captivated by the actor's portrayal of the lead character; it was truly a fine performance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Sports

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A fine performance.

Independent

She is also delivering a fine performance.

The New York Times

Giggs missed a fine performance from Manchester United.

Independent

Still, this was a fine performance.

The New York Times - Arts

A fine performance of this type.

The New York Times

Most of the pieces were there for a fine performance.

The New York Times - Arts

It was a fine performance, and an emphatic win.

The Guardian - Sport

This slightly blunted the edges of a fine performance.

The New York Times - Arts

That was it, a fine performance, and then, homeward.

The New Yorker

The Nets also received a fine performance from Robinson.

The New York Times

Undeniably, she gave a fine performance in The Iron Lady.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a fine performance" to positively critique or commend someone's execution of a task, in artistic or athletic endeavors.

Common error

While "a fine performance" is versatile, avoid using it excessively in casual conversation. Opt for more relaxed alternatives like "good job" or "well done" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

A fine performance functions as an adjective phrase modifying the noun "performance", indicating a positive evaluation of the quality of the performance. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Arts

15%

Sports

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a fine performance" is a grammatically correct and widely used phrase for positively evaluating an event, action, or display. Predominantly found in News & Media, Arts, and Sports contexts, it maintains a neutral register suitable for diverse professional and journalistic uses. Ludwig AI confirms its versatile usage, indicating its effectiveness in commending achievements and skillful executions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a stellar rendition

Specifically applies to performances like music or acting, indicating an exceptional interpretation or execution.

a masterful display

Implies great skill and control, suggesting the performance was conducted with expertise and artistry.

an outstanding execution

Highlights the precise and effective way in which the performance was carried out, stressing competence.

an excellent showing

Replaces 'fine performance' with 'excellent showing', focusing on the act of showing or presenting something well.

a skillful exhibition

Emphasizes the skill and expertise demonstrated during the performance or showing.

an impressive display

Emphasizes the visual or observable aspect of the performance, suggesting it was striking or remarkable.

a polished act

Highlights the refined and skillful nature of the performance, suggesting it was carefully honed.

a commendable effort

Shifts the focus from the performance itself to the effort put into it, implying praiseworthiness.

a top-notch presentation

Focuses on the quality of the presentation, emphasizing its high standard and professionalism.

a remarkable achievement

Highlights the accomplishment aspect, suggesting the performance reached a significant milestone.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "a fine performance"?

You can use alternatives like "an excellent showing", "a commendable effort", or "an impressive display" depending on the context.

How do I use "a fine performance" in a sentence?

Use "a fine performance" to describe something done well, such as "The actor delivered a fine performance in the play" or "The team put on a fine performance during the game".

Is "a fine performance" formal or informal?

"A fine performance" leans towards a neutral to slightly formal register, making it suitable for news articles, reviews, and professional settings, while still being understandable in most contexts.

What's the difference between "a fine performance" and "a good performance"?

"A fine performance" suggests a higher level of skill or artistry than "a good performance". While both are positive, "fine" implies a more refined or exceptional quality.