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performance

In most contexts, 'performance' can be either countable (e.g., "a great performance") or uncountable (e.g., "high performance"), depending on whether you are talking about a specific event or a general level of quality. When used in business or law, the word is more formal and refers to completing duties or contracts rather than acting on a stage. Be careful not to confuse it with 'perform,' which is the verb form. You 'perform' a task to achieve a high 'performance'.

💬Casual Conversation

🎬Tuesday afternoon, Maya is checking in on Ryan during his work hours.
Maya

Did your boss finally call you out for your trash performance this quarter?

Maya
Ryan
Ryan

Nah, he's chill. I think I'm flying under the radar.

💡
Maya uses 'trash' as a slang adjective for 'very poor' to criticize Ryan's work efficiency (performance). Ryan responds with the idiom 'flying under the radar', meaning he is avoiding notice or scrutiny despite his poor work quality.

Meanings

noun

An act of staging or presenting a play, concert, or other form of entertainment.

"The orchestra gave a breathtaking performance of Beethoven's Ninth Symphony."

noun

The action or process of carrying out or accomplishing a task, especially in terms of efficiency or quality.

"The company is reviewing the annual performance of its regional managers."

noun

How well a person, machine, or organization functions under specific conditions.

"The new software significantly improved the overall performance of the laptop."

noun

The execution of a legal obligation or the fulfillment of a promise/contract.

"Failure to ensure the performance of the contract will result in a penalty fee."

Last Updated: May 22, 2026Report an Error