perform a duty

USAGE SUMMARY

"perform a duty" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when referring to someone doing something that is their responsibility. For example: "It is the duty of the police to protect and serve the community, so they must perform a duty to the best of their abilities."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

In order to fail to perform a duty, the defendant had to know about this duty.

The Washington Post

They both deny neglecting to perform a duty by failing to take steps to ensure that Iraqi civilians were not ill-treated.

The Guardian

Six other soldiers face various other charges connected to his death, including inhuman treatment of prisoners, assault, neglecting to perform a duty and negligently performing a duty.

The Guardian

Since that was the universal reality, she was giving up nothing of value by agreeing to perform a duty that had one and only one way of being performed.

Harvard University

The three remaining servicemen, Warrant Officer Mark Davies, 36, of the Intelligence Corps, Major Michael Peebles, 34, of the Intelligence Corps, and Colonel Jorge Mendonca, 41, lately of the Queen's Lancashire Regiment, are charged with negligently performing their duties or neglecting to perform a duty, contrary to the Army Act 1955.

The Guardian

When Josef Sever cast votes in two U.S. presidential elections, the Plantation man said he was simply trying to do something positive and perform a duty that not all citizens fulfil.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

It was good sportsmanship, Urlacher felt, performing a duty akin to a Red Cross aide.

The New York Times - Sports

The former commanding officer of the Queen's Lancashire Regiment, Colonel Jorge Mendonca, is charged with negligently performing a duty.

The Guardian

Capt Jonathan Price has denied a charge of manslaughter, while Col Richard Bel and CSgt Stuart Pankhurst pleaded not guilty to a charge of negligently performing a duty.

The Guardian

Col Mendonca, Maj Peebles and WO Davies denied negligently performing a duty by not ensuring that the prisoners were not ill-treated.

The Guardian

(23) An agency of the United States Government or of a State or local government performing a duty or power of a business described in this definition.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "perform a duty", ensure the context clearly defines the specific duty being referenced. This enhances clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "perform a duty" in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "do your job" or "carry out your responsibility" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "perform a duty" functions as a verb phrase + noun, where "perform" is the verb indicating action and "duty" is the noun representing a responsibility or obligation. Ludwig's examples illustrate its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

13%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "perform a duty" is a grammatically correct and neutrally-registered expression used to describe the act of fulfilling a responsibility. As confirmed by Ludwig, this phrase is appropriate for formal writing and speeches where you want to emphasize someone's commitment to their responsibilities. Although it is not among the most frequent phrases in the English language, its presence across News & Media and Academic contexts demonstrates its versatility and reliability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

carry out a task

Focuses on the completion of a specific task rather than a general duty.

execute a responsibility

Highlights the active execution of something one is accountable for.

discharge an obligation

Emphasizes the fulfillment of a formal or binding obligation.

fulfill a commitment

Implies satisfying a promise or agreement.

act on an obligation

Similar to discharging an obligation but can apply to moral or ethical duties too.

meet a requirement

Stresses adherence to a specific requirement or standard.

comply with a duty

Emphasizes following or adhering to a prescribed duty.

adhere to a responsibility

Focuses on the consistency and faithfulness in fulfilling a duty.

undertake a responsibility

Focuses on the act of taking on a responsibility, emphasizing the initiation of duty.

attend to a responsibility

Focuses more on giving care and attention to a task.

FAQs

How can I use "perform a duty" in a sentence?

You can use "perform a duty" when describing the act of fulfilling a specific obligation or responsibility. For example, "The soldier was commended for his courage in performing his duty".

What are some alternatives to "perform a duty"?

Alternatives include "carry out a task", "discharge an obligation", or "execute a responsibility", depending on the context.

Is "perform a duty" suitable for formal writing?

Yes, "perform a duty" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly when discussing official responsibilities or obligations. It conveys a sense of seriousness and adherence to standards.

What's the difference between "perform a duty" and "do a job"?

"Perform a duty" often implies a more significant or formal responsibility, whereas "do a job" is a more general term for completing a task or assignment. The choice depends on the context and the level of formality desired.