sterling performance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sterling performance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an exceptionally high-quality or impressive performance in various contexts, such as sports, arts, or business. Example: "The actor delivered a sterling performance that captivated the audience and earned him critical acclaim."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Judith Kellock once more put in a sterling performance.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

His team's sterling performance was appreciated by Paterno.

The New York Times - Sports

CUNY's interim chancellor, William P. Kelly, praised Ms. Raab's "sterling performance".

The New York Times

It was an understandable reaction from Harmison, though, whose figures did not reflect a sterling performance.

The Guardian - Sport

A lifetime of sterling performance and dedication has been erased with one pitch.

The New York Times - Sports

Sadly, we can assume their managers will still receive giant pay packets for their sterling performance.

The Guardian - Money

While the turnovers pockmarked an otherwise sterling performance, there was not much that Coughlin could be displeased over.

The New York Times - Sports

Despite Tim Henman's sterling performance, bickering about the mediocrity of British players has been as vicious as ever.

The Economist

He backed that up with a sterling performance in the World Series, helping the Diamondbacks beat the Yankees.

The New York Times - Sports

Then, he reached his favorite apparatus, the rings, where he put in his second sterling performance of the meet.

The New York Times - Sports

Mr. Gaines takes confident advantage of this prized chance, giving a sterling performance that allows us to see Dr. Stockmann from all the perspectives Ibsen intended.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "sterling performance", consider the audience. While broadly applicable, it may resonate more strongly in formal settings or when emphasizing a particularly noteworthy achievement.

Common error

Avoid using "sterling performance" in very casual conversations or informal writing, as it can sound overly formal or pretentious. Opt for simpler alternatives like "great job" or "excellent work" in those settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sterling performance" functions as a noun phrase where "sterling" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "performance". It describes the quality of the performance, emphasizing its excellence. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this usage is grammatically sound and common.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Academia

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sterling performance" is a well-established phrase used to commend acts of particular merit. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's considered grammatically correct and finds frequent application in formal contexts, particularly within news media and, to a lesser extent, academic writing. While alternatives such as ""outstanding performance"" or "exceptional performance" exist, "sterling performance" carries a slightly elevated tone, making it suitable for situations where emphasizing excellence is key.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

outstanding performance

Emphasizes the performance's distinction and superiority compared to others.

exceptional performance

Highlights that the performance goes beyond the norm and is notably superior.

superb performance

Indicates a performance of the highest quality and skill.

excellent performance

A general term for a very good performance, slightly less emphatic than "sterling".

brilliant performance

Suggests an intellectually impressive or ingenious performance.

remarkable performance

Highlights the noteworthiness and memorability of the performance.

magnificent performance

Suggests a grand and impressive performance.

first-rate performance

Indicates a performance of top quality and standard.

admirable performance

Highlights the praiseworthy aspects of the performance.

stellar performance

Implies the performance shines brightly and stands out.

FAQs

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

You can use "sterling performance" to describe an achievement or action that is exceptionally good. For example, "The team's "outstanding performance" led them to victory," or "The actor gave a "superb performance" in the play."

What are some alternatives to "sterling performance"?

Alternatives to "sterling performance" include "excellent performance", ""outstanding performance"", "exceptional performance", or "remarkable performance", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "sterling performance" suitable for formal writing?

Yes, "sterling performance" is appropriate for formal writing. It conveys a high level of achievement and is often used in professional or academic contexts.

What distinguishes "sterling performance" from "good performance"?

"Sterling performance" implies a level of excellence and distinction beyond simply a "good performance". It suggests that the performance was not only satisfactory but also particularly impressive and praiseworthy.