pulling off performance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pulling off performance" is not entirely correct in standard English usage.
It can be used when referring to successfully executing or achieving a performance, but it may sound awkward without additional context. Example: "Despite the challenges, the team was able to pull off a stunning performance at the gala."

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

For actors to pull off performances in two separate languages on different nights is impressive, and after a little initial stiffness, the cast did a great job in the English-language version.

The New York Times

As is pulling off a performance that leaves your victims – who have crawled down the aisle on their hands and knees, been mercilessly flirted with, and had their future sex lives discussed in great detail from the stage – almost pleased to have been singled out for humiliation.

The Guardian

Picture yourself pulling off your performance with confidence.

WikiHow

A comparable pull-off performance between conventional suction cups and the experiments from our studies would then result in a corrected strength, which is calculated by multiplying the given pull-off strength of the commercial suction cups with the pillar packing density of ∼30% from our samples.

ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces

Jokes were re-written on the spot, sketches frantically re-jigged, and above it all hung the enticing question of whether or not, in just a few hours' time, this collection of comedians, actors and musicians would succeed in pulling off a spectacular gala performance.

The Guardian

This alluring yet enigmatic concerto is hard to pull off in performance.

The New York Times

THE same contrary qualities in Berlioz's music that lend it distinction make it hard to pull off in performance.

The New York Times

Nominated for four awards – including record and song of the Year for Chandelier – Sia could well be the surprise highlight, especially if she can pull off a performance as spellbinding as this.

The Guardian - Music

They said: 'Danny, we want you to save EastEnders.'" Dyer added that posher actors would be unable to pull off his performance in the soap, saying that Benedict Cumberbatch would be "useless".

The Guardian - Film

"Anarchy in the UK" (Andrew WK).

Vice

As Dr. Amanda Reisman, Weigert pulls off a performance infused with empathy and restraint; you really believe that this is a person capable of getting through to the evasive and intellectual Celeste.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "pulling off performance", ensure the context clearly indicates a successful execution, especially when overcoming challenges or difficulties. For instance, "Despite the technical difficulties, the band succeeded in "pulling off a stellar performance".

Common error

Avoid using "pulling off performance" in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise and professional alternatives such as "delivering a performance" or "executing a performance" to maintain a polished tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pulling off performance" functions as a verbal phrase indicating the successful execution or delivery of a performance. It suggests a degree of difficulty overcome in achieving the desired result. Ludwig AI notes it is acceptable, though not the most common.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "pulling off performance" refers to the successful execution or delivery of a performance, often when there are underlying difficulties or challenges. While grammatically acceptable, according to Ludwig AI, it is not the most common phrasing and leans toward a neutral register. More formal contexts may benefit from alternatives like "delivering a performance" or "executing a performance". It is most frequently found in news and media sources, with usage implying admiration for the achievement. Keep in mind the context to ensure appropriate usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

delivering a performance

Focuses on the act of giving or presenting the performance.

executing a performance

Emphasizes the skillful and effective carrying out of the performance.

achieving a performance

Highlights the successful attainment of a desired performance level.

giving a performance

A more general term for presenting a performance to an audience.

staging a performance

Focuses on the act of preparing and presenting the performance.

presenting a performance

Similar to 'giving a performance', but may imply a more formal setting.

putting on a performance

Emphasizes the act of creating or arranging the performance.

accomplishing a performance

Highlights the successful completion of the performance, often against odds.

managing a performance

Focuses on the organizational and administrative aspects of the performance.

orchestrating a performance

Implies careful planning and coordination to achieve a successful performance.

FAQs

What does it mean to "pull off a performance"?

To "pull off a performance" means to successfully execute or deliver a performance, often implying that it was achieved despite challenges or difficulties. It suggests a sense of accomplishment in the face of potential failure.

What are some alternatives to saying "pulling off a performance"?

Alternatives include "delivering a performance", "executing a performance", or "achieving a performance". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

Is "pulling off a performance" formal or informal?

"Pulling off a performance" leans towards the informal side. In more formal settings, consider using phrases like "presenting a performance" or "staging a performance" to maintain a more professional tone.

How can I use "pulling off performance" in a sentence?

Example: "The actors were able to "pull off" a fantastic performance despite the last-minute script changes." It implies that the successful execution was not guaranteed but was achieved nonetheless.