a sensational performance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a sensational performance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an outstanding or impressive display of skill, typically in the context of arts, sports, or entertainment. Example: "The audience was left in awe after witnessing a sensational performance by the ballet company."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Sports

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

Christophe Roméro gives a sensational performance as the faun surrogate.

The New York Times - Arts

"That was a sensational performance from a great horse," he said.

Independent

Another guest, Washington Ballet's Brooklyn Mack, gave a sensational performance as the wicked slave trader Lankedem.

Independent

Here he offered a sensational performance of Prokofiev's Fifth Symphony to conclude a slightly eccentric program of Russian music.

The New York Times - Arts

Mr. Gergiev seemed to revel in the drama of "The Rite" on Friday, and carried the Philharmonic with him in a sensational performance.

The New York Times - Arts

The young man from Hull has beaten Ireland's John Joe Nevin with what was apparently a sensational performance in the last round.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

She could be slatternly and tough, as in "BUtterfield 8" (1960), but the full range of her temperament — taunting, delicate, disappointed, hurt, avaricious — came out at last in "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf" (1966), in which she snarled at Richard Burton, a truly sensational performance that was both a piece of great acting and a piece of extraordinary gossip.

The New Yorker

She could be slatternly and tough, as in "BUtterfield 8" (1960), but the full range of her temperament taunting, delicate, disappointed, hurt, avaricious came out at last in "Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf" (1966), in which she snarled at Richard Burton, a truly sensational performance that was both a piece of great acting and a piece of extraordinary gossip.

The New Yorker

It's a gutsy, sensational performance that adds layers to an already spiky, provocative creation.

The New York Times

There are at least a dozen sensational performances, among them Keith Carradine as Hickok; Dayton Callie as his sidekick, Charlie Utter Robin Weigertt as Calamity Jane; Jeffrey Jones as the nosy newspaper publisher A. W. Merrick; Paula Malcomson as Trixie, a prostitute with higher aspirations; and Geri Jewell as Jewel, Swearengen's crippled maid.

The New Yorker

And, while we're on the subject, how come Laurie Metcalf doesn't get a look-in for her sensational performance in Long Day's Journey Into Night?

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a sensational performance," consider the context. It is best suited for situations where skill, artistry, or athleticism are prominently displayed.

Common error

Avoid using "a sensational performance" to describe everyday activities or events that do not warrant such strong praise. This can dilute the phrase's impact and make your writing sound hyperbolic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sensational performance" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where "sensational" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "performance." Ludwig examples confirm its use to describe particularly impressive instances of skill, artistry, or athleticism.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Arts

25%

Sports

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Science

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a sensational performance" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to describe particularly impressive displays of skill, artistry, or athleticism. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, with a neutral register, and is commonly found in news, arts, and sports reporting. When using the phrase, it's important to reserve it for truly remarkable events to avoid diluting its impact. Ludwig's examples demonstrate the wide range of situations in which this phrase can be appropriately applied.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an outstanding display

Replaces 'sensational performance' with a more general term for excellent achievement.

an exceptional showing

Focuses on the visible aspect of the performance and its quality.

a remarkable feat

Emphasizes the achievement aspect rather than the performance itself.

a dazzling exhibition

Highlights the visual impressiveness of the performance.

a breathtaking display

Highlights the beauty and impact of the performance.

an electrifying act

Conveys the exciting and energetic nature of the performance.

a masterful presentation

Emphasizes the skill and control demonstrated in the performance.

a virtuoso rendition

Applies specifically to performances involving skill and artistry.

an awe-inspiring spectacle

Focuses on the grandeur and impact of the performance.

a brilliant piece

Highlights that the performance was very smart, creative, and well-executed.

FAQs

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

You can use "a sensational performance" to describe an event, act, or achievement that is exceptionally impressive or captivating. For example, "The audience was captivated by "a sensational performance" by the lead actor".

What are some alternatives to "a sensational performance"?

Alternatives include "an outstanding display", "a remarkable feat", or "an exceptional showing". The best choice depends on the specific context and the aspect you want to emphasize.

Is "a sensational performance" too strong of a phrase for everyday events?

Yes, using "a sensational performance" for mundane events can sound hyperbolic. It's best reserved for truly impressive and captivating displays of skill or artistry.

Can "a sensational performance" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "a sensational performance" is suitable for formal writing, especially when describing events in arts, sports, or entertainment. However, ensure the tone is appropriate and the context warrants such strong praise.