a nice performance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a nice performance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to compliment or describe a performance that was enjoyable or well-executed, such as in theater, music, or sports. Example: "The actor delivered a nice performance that captivated the audience from start to finish."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

(Her program bio tells us that we've seen her before, as Shylock's daughter Jessica in the Al Pacino Merchant of Venice. While I don't recall the performer, I remember that it was quite a nice performance).

Huffington Post

Bopara said: "It was a nice performance by the boys.

The Guardian - Sport

It was a nice performance by Jamaal Charles and his blockers, but a productive run game alone is rarely enough.

The New York Times

It is a nice performance from Harris Dickinson, although he looks older than the 16 he is supposed to be.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

In a display of magnanimity, Bounty Killer praised his bitter rival Beenie Man for putting on a "nice performance".

The New York Times - Arts

There was also a nice performance of "The Blue Bird" by Charles V. Stanford, under Teresa Niss.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

As for Jared Leto, he gave a very nice performance, teasing, worldly, pert, and was a perfect foil to McConaughey's tormented alpha-hetero-male-at-bay turn.

The Guardian - Film

"All over, it was a really nice performance". Liverpool play in the Premier League at Wembley Stadium against Tottenham on Sunday, 22 October (16:00 BST), before a home game against Huddersfield on Saturday, 28 October (15:00 BST).

BBC

Overall, it's a really beautiful and nice performance.

Huffington Post

Brook gives a nice, easy performance.

The New York Times

"It was a nice, consistent performance," said Michael Clark, head of United States stock trading at Credit Suisse First Boston.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a nice performance" to acknowledge competence and skill without sounding overly enthusiastic. It's suitable for situations where you want to offer positive feedback in a balanced manner.

Common error

While versatile, "a nice performance" might come across as understated in highly formal settings. Consider using stronger adjectives like "exceptional" or "outstanding" to convey a higher level of appreciation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a nice performance" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "nice" is an adjective modifying the noun "performance". According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Wiki

9%

Science

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a nice performance" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase for expressing approval. Ludwig highlights that this phrase effectively communicates positive feedback in various contexts, from praising actors to sports teams. While versatile, it is more suited to neutral registers and may require stronger adjectives in formal settings. Alternatives like "a fine performance" or "a solid performance" can offer similar meanings with slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a commendable performance

Replaces "nice" with a more formal and slightly stronger adjective.

a fine performance

Offers a classic and slightly more elevated expression of approval.

a solid performance

Suggests a performance that is reliable and dependable.

an admirable performance

Implies that the performance is worthy of praise and respect.

a creditable performance

Indicates that the performance is deserving of recognition and respect.

a decent performance

Similar in meaning, but potentially implying a slightly lower standard than "nice".

a skillful performance

Highlights the technical proficiency demonstrated in the performance.

a noteworthy performance

Highlights the performance as something worth paying attention to or remembering.

a good show

Uses a more informal and general term to describe the performance.

an impressive display

Shifts the focus to the overall impact and spectacle of the performance.

FAQs

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

You can use "a nice performance" to describe something that was well-executed or enjoyable, like "The actor gave "a nice performance" in the play" or "The team put on "a nice performance" during the game".

What's the difference between "a nice performance" and "a great performance"?

"A nice performance" suggests something was good and pleasant, while "a great performance" implies something was outstanding or exceptional. The choice depends on the level of praise you want to convey.

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

Alternatives include "a good performance", "a fine performance", or "a solid performance", depending on the specific nuance you want to express.

Is it always appropriate to use "a nice performance"?

While generally versatile, "a nice performance" might be too understated for highly formal situations or when describing truly exceptional achievements. In those cases, stronger adjectives like "exceptional" or "outstanding" might be more suitable.