riveting performance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "riveting performance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a captivating or highly engaging performance, often in the context of theater, film, or music. Example: "The lead actor delivered a riveting performance that left the audience in awe."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Film

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Not in this riveting performance.

The New York Times

Mr. Salonen, a Ligeti champion, led a riveting performance.

The New York Times - Arts

Slender, agile and an impressive dancer, Mr. Frost gave a riveting performance.

The New York Times - Arts

Mr. Andsnes combines transparent colorings and incisive articulations in his riveting performance.

The New York Times

Mr. Gergiev's riveting performance offers the powerhouse tenor Vladimir Galuzin in the title role.

The New York Times

Mr. Zimerman captures both the youthful sweep and the mature intricacy in a riveting performance.

The New York Times - Arts

He singled out Jill Quigg, who gives a riveting performance as a beer-sipping smart-mouth.

The New York Times

Anna Elashvili (violinist), Claire Bryant (cellist) and Elizabeth Joy Roe (pianist) gave a riveting performance.

The New York Times - Arts

Yet in this riveting performance the minimal elements of this austere piece hung together to make something organic, even urgent.

The New York Times - Arts

The music sets an elusive Asian-pinged melody to tangy, piercing harmonies, played with tart colors in this riveting performance.

The New York Times - Arts

Sunday's most riveting performance belonged to Ms. Apple and her songs about romantic strife and self-torment.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "riveting performance" to describe performances that not only hold attention but also create a sense of excitement and intensity. For instance, "The actress gave a "riveting performance", captivating the audience with her emotional depth and stage presence."

Common error

Avoid using "riveting performance" to describe ordinary or unremarkable events. The phrase implies a high degree of intensity and excitement, so reserve it for truly exceptional cases. Describing a routine presentation as a "riveting performance" could sound exaggerated or insincere.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "riveting performance" functions as an adjective phrase modifying the noun "performance". It emphasizes the captivating and highly engaging quality of the performance. As Ludwig AI points out, the phrase is commonly used to describe engaging performances.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Arts

25%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

TV & Radio

1%

Wiki

1%

Sports

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "riveting performance" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to describe performances that are exceptionally captivating. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is considered correct and usable in written English. Predominantly found in News & Media and Arts contexts, it conveys strong admiration. While versatile, it's best reserved for truly exceptional instances to avoid sounding hyperbolic. Alternatives like "captivating performance" or "gripping performance" offer similar connotations, depending on the desired nuance. This phrase is appropriate for both formal and informal settings, but is most impactful when used judiciously.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

captivating performance

Replaces "riveting" with "captivating", focusing on the ability to capture attention.

engrossing performance

Replaces "riveting" with "engrossing", emphasizing the ability to completely occupy someone's attention.

gripping performance

Replaces "riveting" with "gripping", highlighting the ability to hold someone's interest tightly.

compelling performance

Replaces "riveting" with "compelling", suggesting the performance is forceful and persuasive.

stunning performance

Replaces "riveting" with "stunning", focusing on the impressive and surprising nature of the performance.

outstanding performance

Replaces "riveting" with "outstanding", highlighting the exceptional quality of the performance.

remarkable performance

Replaces "riveting" with "remarkable", emphasizing the noteworthy or extraordinary quality of the performance.

exceptional performance

Replaces "riveting" with "exceptional", indicating the performance is above the ordinary.

electrifying performance

Replaces "riveting" with "electrifying", emphasizing the exciting and stimulating nature of the performance.

powerful performance

Replaces "riveting" with "powerful", suggesting the performance has a strong impact and influence.

FAQs

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

You can use "riveting performance" to describe any type of performance that is exceptionally captivating and engaging. For example: "The orchestra delivered a "riveting performance" of Beethoven's Symphony No. 5." or "The actor's "riveting performance" brought the audience to its feet."

What are some alternatives to "riveting performance"?

Alternatives to "riveting performance" include "captivating performance", "engrossing performance", or "gripping performance". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "riveting performance" formal or informal?

"Riveting performance" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. It is often found in news articles, reviews, and even casual conversations about the arts or entertainment.

What makes a performance a "riveting performance"?

A "riveting performance" is one that completely captures the audience's attention and holds it throughout. This can be achieved through exceptional skill, emotional depth, suspense, or a combination of factors that create a highly engaging experience.