a refined performance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a refined performance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a performance that is polished, sophisticated, or executed with great skill and attention to detail. Example: "The concert featured a refined performance by the orchestra, captivating the audience with their precision and artistry."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

He sang with yearning in a refined performance of "Sei Mir Gegrüsst" ("I Greet You") and tender longing in "Nachtviolen" ("Dame's Violets").

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

(Steve Smith) Classical Music ★ American Symphony Orchestra (Sunday) Among the highlights of the 2006 Bard Music Festival was a powerful, refined performance by Leon Botstein and the American Symphony Orchestra of Liszt's sprawling, inexplicably neglected "Faust" Symphony.

The New York Times - Arts

Still, a confident and refined performance can distract you from the work's weaknesses.

The New York Times

On the road, the Compass does OK – the diesel gives strong and refined performance, with perhaps just a little less polish than some others, and this car feels much more like its wieldy European rivals than the American off-road barges of old.

Independent

The smaller orchestra used for the Ravel concerto looked almost like a chamber ensemble by comparison, appropriate for the refined performance Ms. Cooper gave.

The New York Times - Arts

Hers was not the most refined performance.

The New York Times

Shea can learn a lot from both Altidore's experience wandering around Europe searching for the right situation and the refined performance actually finding it produced.

The Guardian - Sport

The new engine offers strong and quite refined performance – that's hardly surprising given that it turns out 150 horsepower and 350 Newton metres of torque - and it's paired with a new six-speed gearbox.

Independent

One was the Tokyo String Quartet, whose supple, rich-toned account of Schubert's Quartet Movement in C minor (D. 703) was the most refined performance of the evening.

The New York Times - Arts

Van Zweden has earned a reputation as an exacting conductor able to deliver refined performances of classic repertoire by the great composers such as Beethoven, Mahler and Mozart.

The Guardian - Music

Meanwhile, Ryan O'Neal distinguishes himself from the refined performances given by the rest of the A-list ensemble by delivering every one of Brig Gen James Gavin's lines as if he were reading it from an idiot board to an audience sitting on the other side of a canyon.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a refined performance" to describe actions or presentations that demonstrate a high level of skill, attention to detail, and polish. It is suitable for both artistic and technical contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "a refined performance" in casual conversation or informal writing. The phrase carries a sense of formality and sophistication that might seem out of place in everyday settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a refined performance" functions as a noun phrase, where "refined" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "performance". It describes the quality of an execution, indicating skill and polish, as exemplified by Ludwig in various musical contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a refined performance" is a grammatically correct and usable expression that signifies a high degree of skill and polish in execution. While not extremely common, it appears frequently in news and media, as validated by Ludwig. It's best suited for formal writing or when describing sophisticated actions or presentations. Remember to use it judiciously in informal contexts. Consider alternatives like "a polished performance" or "an elegant performance" to achieve subtle differences in tone. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase enhances descriptions by conveying a sense of quality and attention to detail.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a polished performance

Emphasizes smoothness and freedom from flaws.

an elegant performance

Highlights grace and style in the execution.

a sophisticated performance

Suggests complexity and high-level skill.

an exquisite performance

Implies exceptional beauty and delicacy.

a masterful performance

Emphasizes exceptional skill and control.

a brilliant performance

Highlights intelligence and flair.

a virtuoso performance

Indicates extraordinary technical skill.

an accomplished performance

Highlights skill gained through practice and experience.

a seamless performance

Emphasizes the smooth and effortless nature of the execution.

a fine performance

Suggests general high quality and competence.

FAQs

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

You can use "a refined performance" to describe something done with great skill and attention to detail. For example, "The concert featured "a refined performance" by the orchestra".

What are some alternatives to "a refined performance"?

Some alternatives include "a polished performance", "an elegant performance", or "a sophisticated performance", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a refined performance" suitable for all types of writing?

"A refined performance" is generally more suitable for formal writing or when describing artistic or technical skills. In more casual contexts, simpler phrases may be more appropriate.

What distinguishes "a refined performance" from just "a good performance"?

"A refined performance" suggests not just competence but also a high degree of polish, skill, and attention to detail. It implies a level of sophistication and artistry beyond a merely "good" effort.