central performance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "central performance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you are discussing the main or most important performance aspect of a system, organization, or event. Example: "The central performance of the software was evaluated during the testing phase to ensure it met all requirements."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It lives on Bening's central performance.

The Guardian

It has a stellar central performance from Kevin Bacon.

The Guardian

It stands or falls, of course, on its central performance.

The Guardian - Film

But Sidse Babett Knudsen's compelling central performance has never faltered.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Daniel Day-Lewis's central performance has been widely championed.

The Guardian - Film

Vanity Fair called Elizabeth Olsen's central performance "revelatory".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

The pacing seemed to be weighed down by the melancholy of Bill Paterson's central performance.

The Guardian - Film

Part of the disappointment of "Waking the Dead" has to do with its central performance.

The New York Times

It's vigorous stuff and has an impressive central performance from Benicio Del Toro.

The Guardian - Film

There's even a chilling central performance from Haynes favourite Julianne Moore.

The Guardian - Film

It also has a seriously great central performance by Alison Steadman.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "central performance", ensure that you are referring to the single most important performance in a work, rather than merely a good or notable one. It should be the linchpin that the entire production relies on.

Common error

Avoid using "central performance" to describe a performance that is merely competent or above average. Reserve it for performances that are truly exceptional and fundamentally drive the narrative or artistic success of the work.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "central performance" functions as a noun phrase that identifies the most important or pivotal acting achievement within a play, film, or other performance-based art form. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and frequent usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "central performance" is a noun phrase denoting the most pivotal acting achievement in a performance-based art form. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its correct and frequent usage, mostly in News & Media. It serves to highlight the significance of an actor's portrayal, influencing the work's overall success. Alternatives include "key performance" or "lead performance". Remember, reserve "central performance" for truly exceptional acting, not just competent portrayals.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

key performance

Replaces "central" with "key", emphasizing importance.

main performance

Substitutes "central" with "main", highlighting the primary aspect.

lead performance

Replaces "central" with "lead", focusing on the main actor's performance.

core performance

Substitutes "central" with "core", underlining the fundamental nature.

primary performance

Replaces "central" with "primary", indicating the most important performance.

pivotal performance

Substitutes "central" with "pivotal", stressing a critical role.

principal performance

Replaces "central" with "principal", highlighting the main performance.

major performance

Substitutes "central" with "major", emphasizing the substantial significance.

outstanding performance

Focuses on the quality of the performance rather than its centrality.

standout performance

Emphasizes a performance that is particularly noticeable and impressive.

FAQs

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

You might say, "The success of the play hinges on the "central performance" of the lead actor" or "Critics praised the "central performance" for its emotional depth".

What are some alternatives to "central performance"?

Consider using phrases like "key performance", "main performance", or "lead performance" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "central performance" subjective?

While appreciation of performances can be subjective, the term "central performance" implies an objective importance to the work as a whole. It suggests the performance is essential to the narrative or artistic intent.

How does "central performance" differ from "supporting performance"?

"Central performance" refers to the leading role that significantly drives the narrative, while a "supporting performance" complements the "central performance" and enhances the story without being the primary focus.