a stellar performance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a stellar performance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an outstanding or exceptional performance in various contexts, such as in sports, arts, or presentations. Example: "The actor delivered a stellar performance that left the audience in awe."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

So far this year it has risen 3.69%–a stellar performance, as the Standard & Poor's index has lost a fifth of its value.

Forbes

But few expect a stellar performance.

The Economist

A stellar performance for the 24-year-old.

The New York Times

"Always a stellar performance," his business card guarantees.

The New York Times

Schwarz is under pressure to give a stellar performance.

The New York Times

In the air, the Vikings got a stellar performance from Christian Ponder.

The New York Times

And even among the seemingly talented, few can sustain a stellar performance over the long haul.

The New York Times

He turned in a stellar performance but he did not steal the show.

Independent

A stellar performance today should seal a place as captain this summer.

Independent

"Not to take anything away from Big Brown that day because it was a stellar performance.

The New York Times - Sports

And while the film division turned in a stellar performance, hit films are difficult to forecast.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "a stellar performance" to highlight truly exceptional achievements in areas like sports, arts, business, or academics. This phrase adds emphasis and recognizes superior quality.

Common error

Avoid using "a stellar performance" to describe average or slightly above-average results. Reserve this phrase for situations where the achievement significantly exceeds expectations to maintain its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a stellar performance" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as the subject or object of a sentence. It qualifies the noun "performance" with the adjective "stellar", indicating superior quality or brilliance. Ludwig confirms this usage through its examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Sports

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Science

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a stellar performance" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that describes an exceptionally high-quality achievement. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is suitable for a variety of contexts, particularly in news, sports, and business. While alternatives like "an outstanding performance" or "an exceptional performance" exist, "a stellar performance" carries a unique emphasis on brilliance. It is important to reserve this phrase for truly remarkable achievements to maintain its impact. The phrase's neutral register makes it appropriate for professional communication, underscoring its versatility and effectiveness in conveying admiration and praise.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an outstanding performance

Focuses on the exceptional quality, differing in word choice.

an exceptional performance

Emphasizes rarity and superiority, differing in nuance.

a remarkable performance

Highlights the noteworthiness of the performance, differing in emphasis.

an extraordinary performance

Stresses the unusual nature of the performance, differing in intensity.

an impressive performance

Focuses on the skill and impact, differing in word choice.

a brilliant performance

Highlights the intelligence and skill involved, differing in specific quality.

a magnificent performance

Emphasizes grandeur and impressiveness, differing in scale.

a superb performance

Indicates excellent quality and skill, differing in word choice.

a top-notch performance

Highlights the superior quality and standard, differing in style.

a world-class performance

Emphasizes the high standard and global recognition, differing in scope.

FAQs

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

You can use "a stellar performance" to describe someone or something that has performed exceptionally well. For example: "The athlete delivered "a stellar performance" at the Olympics".

What are some alternatives to "a stellar performance"?

Alternatives to "a stellar performance" include "an outstanding performance", "an exceptional performance", or "a remarkable performance".

Is it better to say "stellar performance" or "star performance"?

"Stellar performance" is generally preferred to describe something of exceptional quality. "Star performance" can also be used, but "stellar performance" more strongly implies brilliance and excellence.

What is the difference between "a stellar performance" and "a good performance"?

"A stellar performance" indicates a performance that is significantly above average and highly impressive. "A good performance" simply means the performance was satisfactory or adequate but doesn't imply exceptional quality.