gripping performance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gripping performance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a captivating or emotionally engaging performance, often in the context of theater, film, or music. Example: "The actor delivered a gripping performance that left the audience on the edge of their seats."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Entertainment

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Accompanied here by Murray Lerner's documentary DVD of the event, it's a remarkable, gripping performance.

Independent

Of the three acts offered, the only consistently gripping performance came with Act III of "Otello".

The New York Times - Arts

Though the characters were unsympathetic, Philip Seymour Hoffman turned in an insidiously gripping performance as the cult leader.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This work, composed in 1938-39, proved a surprisingly apt substitution, especially in Mr. Maazel's gripping performance.

The New York Times - Arts

In this imaginative staging and gripping performance "What Next?" emerges as a theatrically dynamic and, finally, quite poignant music drama.

The New York Times - Arts

Then there are the dynamic baritone Mariusz Kwiecien as her bullying brother, and James Levine, who conducts a gripping performance.

The New York Times

The movie is long on atmosphere, and Mr. Mortensen gives an understated, gripping performance and keeps you watching even when the story underwhelms.

The New York Times

A gripping performance by Mr. Johnston and Ms. Stott gives full depth to the work's introspective, angst-ridden and melancholy moods.

The New York Times - Arts

Recent Oscar-winner Melissa Leo gave a moving, gripping performance in a series of emotionally taut scenes that showed screenwriter David Simon at his best.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

It's a fascinatingly gripping performance that doesn't so much command the screen, dominating it with shouts and displays of obvious technique, as take it over incrementally, an occupation that echoes Smiley's steady incursion into the mole's lair.

The New York Times

It's all fascinating and sharply entertaining, not least for the curious dislocations, like a gripping performance from the Swan Silvertone Singers, who sound a little bewildered by their generous reception.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a performance, consider the specific elements that made it "gripping". Provide details about the actor's skill, the director's vision, or the overall impact of the piece.

Common error

Avoid using "gripping performance" as a generic compliment. Instead, specify what made the performance compelling, such as the actor's nuanced expressions or the play's unexpected twists.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gripping performance" functions as a descriptive term. The adjective "gripping" modifies the noun "performance", indicating that the performance is intensely captivating and holds the audience's attention. Ludwig AI confirms that it's a commonly used expression.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Arts

12%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Science

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "gripping performance" is a grammatically sound and widely used phrase to describe a performance that captivates and holds the audience's attention. Ludwig AI verifies its common usage across various contexts, particularly in news, arts, and entertainment. While versatile, it's best to use it with specific details to avoid clichés. Alternatives like "compelling performance" or "riveting performance" can offer subtle variations in emphasis. The phrase maintains a neutral register, making it suitable for both formal and informal discussions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

compelling performance

Focuses on the performance's ability to strongly capture and maintain attention.

riveting performance

Emphasizes the performance's ability to hold the audience's attention as if spellbound.

captivating performance

Highlights the performance's charm and ability to enchant the audience.

enthralling performance

Stresses the performance's power to completely hold someone's attention and interest.

absorbing performance

Focuses on the performance's ability to fully engage the audience's mind.

engrossing performance

Similar to absorbing, but suggests a deeper level of involvement.

arresting performance

Highlights the performance's striking and immediate impact.

stunning performance

Emphasizes the impressive and surprising quality of the performance.

remarkable performance

Indicates that the performance is worthy of attention and praise.

outstanding performance

Highlights the exceptional quality and superiority of the performance.

FAQs

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

You can use "gripping performance" to describe a performance that captivates and holds the audience's attention. For example, "The actor delivered a gripping performance that left the audience speechless."

What are some alternatives to "gripping performance"?

You can use alternatives like "compelling performance", "riveting performance", or "captivating performance" depending on the context.

What makes a performance "gripping"?

A "gripping performance" is one that is so engaging and compelling that it completely captures the audience's attention and emotions, often through skillful acting, direction, or storytelling.

Is "gripping performance" formal or informal?

"Gripping performance" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. It can be used in reviews, discussions, or casual conversations about performances.