an exceptional performance

USAGE SUMMARY

"an exceptional performance" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It can be used to describe a very impressive and outstanding display or act, usually in the field of entertainment or sports. Example: The ballet company gave an exceptional performance last night, receiving a standing ovation from the audience.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

It's an exceptional performance.

Independent

"It was an exceptional performance by us," said Rodgers.

The Guardian - Sport

Kate Mulvany, playing the family's maid, Dorine, leads this remarkable cast with an exceptional performance.

The Guardian

Cusack gives an exceptional performance as a woman rapidly unravelling under the burden of her life.

The Guardian

"This was an exceptional performance," said Impact head coach Mauro Biello after the match.

The Guardian - Sport

Chief executive Nigel Newton said: "Our children's and educational division has delivered an exceptional performance.

The Guardian - Business

It can also be a way to single out an exceptional performance.

The New York Times

Bradley, 24, put on an exceptional performance and scored a memorable goal in last weekend's 5-1 win over Scotland.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

"It was a pretty exceptional performance".

The Guardian - Sport

In Intolerance, Harriet Walter - stomach-cramped, smoothie-sipping and anti-Semitic - gives a truly exceptional performance in which she suggests (how often has any actor managed this?) that words have run away with her thoughts.

The Guardian

In the process, the original meaning of a bonus – a reward for exceptional performance – has been ignored.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an exceptional performance" to specifically highlight instances where skill, effort, and execution significantly exceed expectations. Provide context by explaining which parameters exceeded expectations or why that performance was exceptional to begin with.

Common error

Avoid using "an exceptional performance" as a generic compliment. Instead, reserve it for instances where the performance demonstrably stands out from the norm and specify the parameters that made the performance exceptional. If you say that, be specific.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an exceptional performance" functions as a noun phrase that describes a specific instance of someone or something performing at a level significantly above average. As indicated by Ludwig AI, this phrase is commonly used to express high praise or recognition.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an exceptional performance" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to describe an outstanding achievement or display of skill. Ludwig AI confirms its wide acceptance across various contexts. With a neutral register and frequent occurrence in news, media, and scientific sources, this phrase effectively conveys admiration and recognition for truly remarkable accomplishments. When employing this phrase, ensure it is reserved for performances that genuinely exceed expectations and avoid overuse as a generic compliment.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a world-class performance

Specifies that the performance is among the best globally.

an outstanding rendition

Highlights the quality of execution or interpretation.

a virtuoso act

Implies exceptional technical skill and artistry.

a stellar display

Emphasizes the visual or impressive nature of the performance.

a masterful showing

Suggests expertise and skill in the performance.

a top-tier showing

Indicates the high level or quality of the performance.

a remarkable achievement

Focuses on the outcome or accomplishment rather than the act of performing.

a brilliant feat

Conveys a sense of ingenuity and accomplishment.

an extraordinary effort

Highlights the amount of work and dedication involved.

a noteworthy presentation

Focuses on the act of presenting information or skill in a way that is deserving of attention.

FAQs

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

You can use "an exceptional performance" to describe a situation where someone or something performed remarkably well. For instance, "The athlete delivered "an exceptional performance" during the Olympics, breaking two world records".

What are some alternatives to "an exceptional performance"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "a remarkable achievement", "a stellar display", or "an outstanding rendition" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it better to say "an exceptional performance" or "a great performance"?

"An exceptional performance" indicates something far beyond ordinary or great. "A great performance" is good, but "an exceptional performance" suggests something truly memorable and outstanding. The choice depends on the degree of impressiveness you want to convey.

What makes "an exceptional performance" different from other good performances?

An exceptional performance stands out due to its unique qualities, such as exceeding expectations, demonstrating mastery, or achieving remarkable results. It is more than just competent or satisfactory; it's something truly special and memorable.