it is a performance of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is a performance of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing an act or presentation that is being executed or displayed, often in the context of art, theater, or music. Example: "The play is not just a story; it is a performance of human emotions and relationships."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Sports

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

It is a performance of real strangeness, alienation, wit and unreadable charm.

The Guardian - Film

On this level, it is a performance of an entire unit -- musicians and color guard -- interpreting the music through movement.

The New York Times

It is a performance of exaggerated self-pity, of course, but easily the best thing in the exhibition.

The Guardian

It is a performance of "The Taming of the Shrew," ostensibly written by the Queen and attended by her.

The New York Times

Janice Kerbel's work is the only one nominated which will not be there all of the time, in that it is a performance of nine songs by six classical singers.

The Guardian - Arts

It is a performance of such fervid psychological commitment that it seems a bit of a disappointment when all that happens at the climax of the Dance of the Seven Veils is that the tenor takes off his jacket.

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

It was a performance of tone-over-pulse, but charming in its own veddy English way.

Huffington Post

It was a performance of considerable maturity".

Independent

It's a performance of flagrant charm.

The Guardian

It was a performance of grit and determination.

The Guardian - Sport

It was a performance of astonishing vision and touch.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is a performance of" to describe actions or presentations that are deliberate and executed with skill or intent. It's particularly useful when discussing artistic, theatrical, or musical events.

Common error

Avoid using "it is a performance of" when describing everyday actions that lack a deliberate, skilled execution. Opt for simpler phrasing like "it is an example of" or "it demonstrates" in those cases.

Linguistic Context

It is a performance of functions as a descriptive phrase, typically identifying or characterizing an event, action, or artistic expression. Ludwig indicates its use in characterizing diverse scenarios, from artistic renditions to displays of specific qualities.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Arts

30%

Sports

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is a performance of" is a grammatically correct and versatile way to describe an event or action as a deliberate execution, often with an element of skill or artistry. As Ludwig AI highlights, this phrase commonly appears in contexts such as news, arts, and sports. When employing this phrase, consider that while generally acceptable, avoid overusing it in contexts lacking a deliberate or skilled execution. The alternative suggestions can also help add variety to writing while maintaining accuracy and clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it constitutes a rendition of

Replaces 'performance' with 'rendition,' emphasizing the act of interpreting or presenting something.

it offers an interpretation of

Highlights the subjective understanding and presentation of a work or concept.

it embodies an act of

Focuses on the act itself, rather than the execution or presentation.

it features a portrayal of

Emphasizes the act of depicting or representing something or someone.

it showcases a display of

Highlights the visual or presentational aspect of the performance.

it unfolds as a spectacle of

Draws attention to the grand or visually impressive nature of the performance.

it presents an exhibition of

Emphasizes the showcasing or public display of something.

it serves as an enactment of

Highlights the act of putting something into action or bringing it to life.

it represents a demonstration of

Focuses on proving or illustrating a point through the performance.

it amounts to a staging of

Focuses on the deliberate and artificial nature of the presentation.

FAQs

How can I use "it is a performance of" in a sentence?

Use "it is a performance of" to describe a specific instance of artistic expression, skillful execution, or deliberate action. For example, "The play is a performance of Shakespeare's classic tragedy."

What are some alternatives to "it is a performance of"?

Alternatives include "it is an exhibition of", "it is a rendition of", or "it demonstrates", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "it is a performance for" instead of "it is a performance of"?

No, "it is a performance for" is grammatically incorrect. The correct preposition to use is "of", as in "it is a performance of". The preposition "for" implies a specific audience, e.g. "the performance is for children".

What's the difference between "it is a performance of" and "it is a demonstration of"?

"It is a performance of" typically refers to an artistic or skillful execution, while "it is a demonstration of" implies a display to prove or illustrate a point.