ordinary performance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ordinary performance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a level of performance that is typical or average, often in a context where performance is being evaluated or compared. Example: "The athlete's ordinary performance this season has raised concerns about his training regimen."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

The Chiefs offensive line responded with an ordinary performance.

The New York Times

All the way around, it was a pretty ordinary performance".

The New York Times - Sports

above ten per cent, which is a completely ordinary performance by U.S. standards.

The New Yorker

But the BBC has defended their plans, describing Gary Barlow Day as "no ordinary performance".

Independent

Sheffield, batting.265 with three homers, offered an unusual theory for his ordinary performance.

The New York Times - Sports

This would be bad enough at an ordinary performance, but it turns out the top critic in the land is in - Ben Brantley, New York Times.

The Guardian - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

What is clear by now is that the ordinary, performance-based principles of Australian selection do not apply to Shaun Marsh.

The Guardian - Sport

Close study can turn banal objects into revelatory stories, but no amount of sensitivity and intelligence can transform ordinary performances into thrilling theater.

The New York Times

The cheering was loud and not self conscious and Woods was obviously basking in it after struggling through ordinary performances in the run-up to the Open.

The New York Times

All of this upends a tradition of covers: substitutes are contractually obliged to be within 15 minutes of the house during ordinary performances.

The New York Times - Arts

They have a tough, resolute defence when David Luiz is switched on and not trying too much, a sophisticated, stylish midfield and raw incision on the flanks following the signing of Di María, whose ordinary performances for Manchester United should be placed into the context of his family's struggle to acclimatise to north-west England.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "ordinary performance", ensure the context clearly indicates the standard against which the performance is being judged. It's most effective when contrasting with expected or desired outcomes.

Common error

Avoid using "ordinary performance" in situations where a more nuanced critique is needed. It can come across as overly dismissive without further explanation of specific shortcomings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ordinary performance" functions as a noun phrase, where "ordinary" modifies the noun "performance". Ludwig AI suggests that the phrase is generally accepted and understandable. It serves to describe a performance that is typical or average, lacking any exceptional qualities.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

34%

Formal & Business

22%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "ordinary performance" is a commonly used phrase to describe a performance that is neither exceptionally good nor exceptionally bad, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Its usage is prevalent across news, media, and scientific contexts, indicating a broad applicability. When employing this phrase, it's important to consider the context and ensure it accurately reflects the intended meaning, avoiding overly harsh or critical interpretations. While grammatically sound, alternative phrases like ""average performance"" or ""typical performance"" may offer a more neutral tone depending on the specific situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

average performance

Replaces "ordinary" with "average", indicating a performance that is typical or normal.

typical performance

Substitutes "ordinary" with "typical", suggesting a performance that is representative or expected.

run-of-the-mill performance

Emphasizes the commonness and unexceptional nature of the performance.

unremarkable performance

Highlights the lack of distinction or special qualities in the performance.

pedestrian performance

Implies a lack of imagination or excitement in the performance.

mediocre performance

Suggests a performance that is of moderate or low quality.

commonplace performance

Indicates a performance that is frequently encountered and lacks novelty.

standard performance

Refers to a performance that meets the basic requirements or expectations.

workaday performance

Describes a performance that is routine and lacking in inspiration.

routine performance

Highlights the repetitive and predictable nature of the performance.

FAQs

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

You might say, "Despite the team's hard work, their game resulted in an "ordinary performance" this week."

What's a synonym for "ordinary performance"?

Alternatives include "average performance", "typical performance", or "unremarkable performance", each carrying slightly different connotations.

Is it better to say "average performance" or "ordinary performance"?

Both phrases are acceptable, but ""average performance"" may be perceived as slightly more neutral, while ""ordinary performance"" can sometimes imply a lack of distinction.

When is it appropriate to use "ordinary performance"?

Use ""ordinary performance"" when you want to describe something as neither exceptionally good nor exceptionally bad, but rather meeting the standard expectation.