an astounding performance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an astounding performance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an impressive or remarkable display of skill or talent, often in the context of arts, sports, or presentations. Example: "The audience was left in awe after witnessing an astounding performance by the ballet dancers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

"It was an astounding performance, without being at all flashy," one of the state officials present said.

The New York Times

The man, in an astounding performance by William Windom, hallucinates his past, both happy and sad, in visits to his favourite neighbourhood bar, now condemned to make way for a bank.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

I will do what I can to bring some winks to that betrayal because it was an astounding performance.

Huffington Post

Though its treatment of the drug theme is dated, Frank turns in an astounding performance, earning him his only Oscar nod for Best Actor.

Huffington Post

A-lister Clooney adopts a quieter, less showy pose as a troubled lawyer torn between his loyalty to firm honcho Sydney Pollack and his pal Wilkinson, who gives an astounding performance as an erratic, manic-depressive lawyer at the breaking point.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Ledger will now be remembered as the victim of an epic miscarriage of justice, giving a truly astounding performance that somehow did not find favour with the grizzled, homophobic slobs who run Hollywood).

The Guardian - Film

She has branched out from straight comedy, too: her stunning portrayal of Ma Rainey in the TV film Bessie shook me up; before that, she won an Oscar for her astounding performance in the 2009 drama Precious.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It had real twins in the lead (Martin and Gary Kemp from Spandau Ballet); Legend is distinguished by an astounding double performance by Tom Hardy as both twins – a performance that really deserves a better movie built around it.

The Guardian - Film

Helped along by Lenny Kravitz and Mariah Carey, the unknown actors speak in an array of Hispanic, Caribbean and black American voices, with an astounding debut performance of Gabourey Sidibe, who plays Precious Jones, pregnant at 16 with her second child by her father, HIV positive, very overweight, struggling against her abusive mother, and somehow able to make her own life.

The Guardian - Film

This chorus rang out most strongly during the second season, when Margo Martindale split the show open with her astounding performance as the hillbilly matriarch Mags, an abusive mother who was also a savvy negotiator with the outside world.

The New Yorker

In Chicago, White Sox pitcher Mark Buehrle tried to cheer everyone up with another astounding performance after his perfect game, but even a major league record 45 batters retired in a row couldn't get the Sox another victory.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an astounding performance" to describe achievements that not only meet expectations but significantly exceed them, leaving a lasting impression on the audience or observers. For example, "The athlete's victory was due to an astounding performance during the final round."

Common error

Avoid using "an astounding performance" too frequently. Overuse can diminish its impact. Instead, vary your descriptions with synonyms like "an impressive performance" or "a remarkable feat" to maintain the freshness and effectiveness of your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an astounding performance" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where the adjective "astounding" modifies the noun "performance." This combination highlights the exceptional quality of the action or event being described, as supported by examples found by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an astounding performance" is a noun phrase that describes an exceptionally impressive display of skill or ability. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for use across various contexts, although it appears most frequently in News & Media. While synonyms like "an impressive performance" or "an exceptional achievement" can add variety to writing, it's important to reserve "astounding" for truly remarkable instances to maintain its impact. This comprehensive analysis offers practical guidance for writers seeking to effectively convey admiration and highlight extraordinary achievements.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an extraordinary display

Replaces 'performance' with 'display', emphasizing the visual or observable aspect of the achievement.

a remarkable feat

Substitutes 'astounding performance' with a phrase that highlights the achievement's difficulty and exceptional nature.

an exceptional achievement

Replaces 'performance' with 'achievement', focusing on the accomplishment itself rather than the act of performing.

an incredible accomplishment

Uses 'incredible' in place of 'astounding', and 'accomplishment' instead of 'performance', stressing the positive result.

a stunning rendition

Replaces 'performance' with 'rendition', typically used in the context of artistic or musical interpretations.

a magnificent execution

Focuses on the skill and precision with which something was carried out.

a masterful showing

Emphasizes the high level of skill and control demonstrated.

a brilliant exhibition

Highlights the intelligence and skill displayed.

a wondrous presentation

Emphasizes the delightful and impressive qualities of the performance.

a breathtaking spectacle

Focuses on the visually impressive and awe-inspiring nature of the event.

FAQs

What does "an astounding performance" mean?

The phrase "an astounding performance" refers to a display of skill or ability that is so impressive and remarkable that it causes surprise or amazement. It suggests that the performance greatly exceeded expectations.

How can I use "an astounding performance" in a sentence?

You can use "an astounding performance" to describe a variety of achievements. For example: "The musician delivered "an astounding performance" at the concert," or "The company reported "an astounding performance" in sales this quarter."

What are some synonyms for "an astounding performance"?

Alternatives to "an astounding performance" include "an impressive performance", "an exceptional achievement", "a remarkable feat", and "a stunning rendition". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "an astounding performance" in formal writing?

Yes, "an astounding performance" is suitable for formal writing. While it conveys strong admiration, it is not overly informal and can be used in business reports, academic papers, or news articles to describe exceptional achievements.