put on a performance

USAGE SUMMARY

'put on a performance' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to the act of presenting something, such as a play or a musical concert, to an audience. For example, you could say "The school put on a performance of Romeo and Juliet for the students and their parents."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Perhaps one of the Gilbert and Sullivan societies could put on a performance at St Paul's.

The Guardian - Opinion

He must put on a performance for the media.

Independent

We have to put on a performance again".

Independent

They put on a performance for their highlight-starved fans.

The New York Times - Sports

It's our responsibility to put on a performance".

The Guardian - Sport

"I think we can go anywhere and put on a performance.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

I sort of pride myself on the fact that I love putting on a performance, and yes, of course, the performer is technically different than the person.

Huffington Post

"They're putting on a performance".

The Guardian

They are putting on a performance for the cameras".

The New York Times

At the same time, he said: "You're putting on a show; you're putting on a performance.

The New York Times

Later, in a port town, they encounter a Spanish enclave, where a flamenco troupe puts on a performance.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "put on a performance", consider the audience and tailor the presentation to resonate with their expectations and interests. Ensure the effort and preparation are evident in the final presentation.

Common error

Avoid using "put on a performance" when simply completing a task. The phrase implies a deliberate effort to entertain or impress, not just fulfill a requirement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "put on a performance" primarily functions as a verb phrase. It describes the act of presenting or staging something for an audience. Ludwig confirms the phrase is grammatical and usable.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Wiki

7%

Science

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "put on a performance" is a common and grammatically sound verb phrase used to describe the act of presenting or staging something, typically intended to entertain or impress. Ludwig's analysis confirms that it's widely used in neutral contexts, particularly in news and media. While alternative phrases like "give a presentation" or "stage a show" exist, "put on a performance" encompasses a broader meaning, including the preparation and effort involved. When using this phrase, be mindful of the audience and purpose, ensuring the presentation is tailored appropriately and avoids being used simply to describe the fulfillment of basic tasks.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

perform a routine

Refers to a specific, practiced sequence of actions, often in entertainment.

stage a show

Specifically refers to organizing and presenting a theatrical event.

mount a production

Focuses on the overall effort and organization required for a large-scale performance.

present an act

Highlights a particular segment or routine within a larger event.

enact a scene

Specifically relates to the acting out of a particular part of a play or event.

give a presentation

Focuses more on the act of formally presenting information.

execute a display

Implies a planned and skillful exhibition of something.

deliver a spectacle

Emphasizes the grand and visually impressive nature of the presentation.

showcase talent

Highlights the demonstration of particular skills or abilities.

create a spectacle

Emphasizes the imaginative and creative aspect of putting on a grand performance.

FAQs

How can I use "put on a performance" in a sentence?

You can use "put on a performance" to describe staging a show, as in, "The drama club will "put on a performance" of Hamlet next month" or to describe doing something impressively, as in, "The team "put on a performance" in the final game".

What is a good substitute for "put on a performance"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "give a presentation", "stage a show", or "deliver a spectacle" instead of "put on a performance".

Is it correct to say "put on a performance" in a business context?

Yes, it's acceptable, especially when describing a presentation or demonstration intended to impress clients or stakeholders. However, more formal alternatives might be more suitable, such as "deliver a presentation".

What's the difference between "put on a performance" and "give a performance"?

"Put on a performance" often implies the effort and preparation involved in staging something, while "give a performance" simply refers to the act of performing. The first is broader and captures the planning element as well.