leading performer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "leading performer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is at the forefront of their field or excels in their performance, often in contexts like entertainment, sports, or business. Example: "The leading performer in the competition received a standing ovation for their outstanding talent."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

The 25-year-old was Chelsea's leading performer last term, but has been underwhelming this season and refused to rule out a summer move to PSG on the eve of the first leg last month.

The Guardian - Sport

The day before I spoke to Doig, he'd hosted a party for "Morning, Paramin" in his studio near Port of Spain, at which a leading performer in Trinidad's theatre scene, Wendell Manwarren, had read Walcott's poems aloud.

The New Yorker

who? America's major modern-dance companies have traditionally been fiefs, each headed by a formidably gifted creator who functions as artistic director, sole choreographer and -- for as long as he or she can walk onto the stage -- leading performer.

The New York Times - Arts

Our third leading performer was Novell, ahead 40%, now shifting into supporting users of the Linux open-source operating system.

Forbes

Ms. Wu is today's leading performer on the pipa, the Chinese plucked string instrument that looks like an upright lute.

The New York Times - Arts

American singer and dancer, a leading performer during the Jazz Age and the Harlem Renaissance of the 1920s.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

The filmmakers recorded these stories, told firsthand, and the documentary combines three of these original audio recordings with monologues performed by 10 of Australia's leading performers.

The Guardian - Film

Complementing the collection and display of painting, sculpture, photography, film, and video, the performing arts program, MCA Stage, is the most active interdisciplinary performing arts presenter in Chicago, featuring leading performers from around the globe.

University of Chicago

To win a sound clash, you need dubplates, specially commissioned one-off records from leading performers.

The New York Times - Arts

The seminars bring together leading performers, playwrights, directors, producers and scenic and costume designers.

The New York Times

Still, the proceedings are enlivened by two of the leading performers.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "leading performer", ensure the context clearly establishes the field or area of performance. This adds clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "leading performer" in casual conversation or informal writing where simpler terms like "star" or "best" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "leading performer" functions as a noun phrase, where "leading" modifies the noun "performer". It identifies an individual or entity that excels in a specific domain. Ludwig confirms its proper usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

23%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Science

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "leading performer" is a common and grammatically correct term used to describe someone who excels in a particular field. As Ludwig confirms, it's widely used across various contexts, including news, academia, and encyclopedias. While alternatives like "top performer" and "premier performer" exist, the choice depends on the specific nuance and context. Remember to use "leading performer" thoughtfully, ensuring that the context clearly defines the area of performance. Overuse in informal settings should be avoided to maintain clarity and appropriateness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

top performer

Replaces "leading" with "top", emphasizing superior skill or achievement.

premier performer

Uses "premier" to denote the highest rank or importance of the performer.

chief artist

Focuses on artistic skill, replacing "performer" with "artist" and "leading" with "chief".

star player

Emphasizes prominence, typically in sports or team contexts.

principal actor

Highlights the main role in acting or theatrical performances.

key figure

Focuses on overall importance and influence, rather than just performance.

foremost exponent

Suggests someone who champions or exemplifies a particular skill or art.

outstanding individual

Generalizes the phrase to any field, focusing on exceptional qualities.

elite talent

Highlights the exceptional skill and ability of the person.

preeminent figure

Emphasizes the superior and widely recognized status of the person.

FAQs

How can I use "leading performer" in a sentence?

You can use "leading performer" to describe someone who excels in their field. For example, "She is recognized as the "leading performer" in contemporary ballet."

What are some alternatives to "leading performer"?

Alternatives include "top performer", "premier performer", or "chief artist" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "leading performer" or "top performer"?

Both "leading performer" and "top performer" are correct. The choice depends on the desired nuance, with "leading performer" suggesting a broader influence and "top performer" emphasizing skill.

What is the difference between "leading performer" and "principal actor"?

"Leading performer" is a more general term applicable to various fields, while "principal actor" specifically refers to the main actor in a theatrical production.