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A2 verb #406 most common 16 min read

perform

Top 406

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips perform in 30 Seconds

Explanation perform in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'perform' is a word you might see but rarely use yourself. You might hear it in the context of a 'performance' (a show). If you do use the verb, it is usually to talk about very simple things like singing or dancing. For example, 'I perform a song.' However, at this level, most students will use the word 'do' or 'play' instead. It is good to recognize 'perform' as a word that means 'to do something in front of people' or 'to do a job'. You might see it on a poster for a school concert: 'Students will perform tonight.' Think of it as a special way to say 'show' or 'do'.

At the A2 level, you begin to use 'perform' more specifically. You can use it to describe people doing shows, like 'The band will perform at 8 PM.' You also start to use it for simple work tasks, like 'He performs his job well.' At this level, you should understand that 'perform' is more formal than 'do'. You might use it in a simple email about a school project or a hobby. You are learning that 'perform' is not just for music, but also for how well a machine or a person works. It is a useful word to make your English sound a bit more professional and clear.

By B1, you should be comfortable using 'perform' in a variety of contexts. You can use it to talk about professional duties ('She performs her administrative tasks efficiently') and technical functions ('The new app performs better on older phones'). You understand the difference between 'performing a song' and 'playing a game'. You also start to use the noun 'performance' frequently to discuss results. You can use 'perform' in the passive voice, like 'The test was performed yesterday,' which is common in school and work reports. Your vocabulary is becoming more nuanced, and 'perform' is a key part of that growth.

At the B2 level, you use 'perform' with precision and variety. You are familiar with common collocations like 'perform an operation', 'perform a ritual', or 'perform under pressure'. You can use the word to discuss abstract concepts, such as how an economy or a company 'performs' over time. You understand the stylistic choice of using 'perform' instead of 'carry out' or 'execute' to achieve a specific tone. You are also able to use the word in more complex grammatical structures, such as 'Having performed the necessary checks, the engineer cleared the flight for takeoff.' You see the word as a tool for professional and academic communication.

At the C1 level, you recognize the subtle shades of meaning in 'perform'. You might use it in a sociological sense to talk about 'performing identity' or 'performing social roles'. You are comfortable using it in highly technical or academic writing, where 'perform' is the standard verb for scientific procedures and data analysis. You can discuss the 'performative' nature of language—where saying something is actually doing something (like saying 'I promise'). Your use of the word is natural and sophisticated, and you can easily switch between its artistic, professional, and technical meanings depending on your audience and purpose.

At the C2 level, 'perform' is a word you use with complete mastery. You can engage in deep discussions about 'performance art' or the 'performance metrics' of a global corporation. You understand the philosophical implications of the word in various fields, from linguistics to computer science. You can use it to create complex metaphors or to describe the intricate functioning of biological or social systems. For you, 'perform' is not just a verb but a concept that describes the intersection of action, skill, and observation. You use it effortlessly in any register, from high-level academic discourse to nuanced creative writing.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

perform in 30 Seconds

Perform means to carry out a task, duty, or piece of work, often requiring specific skills or following a formal procedure in professional settings.
It also refers to entertaining an audience through artistic activities like acting, singing, dancing, or playing a musical instrument in a public venue.
The word can describe how well a machine, system, or person functions, focusing on efficiency, speed, and overall quality of the output or action.
In formal or ritualistic contexts, it means to conduct a ceremony or fulfill a legal or religious obligation according to established traditions or rules.

The word perform is a versatile verb that functions as a cornerstone of both professional and artistic English. At its most basic level, to perform means to carry out an action or a piece of work. However, unlike the simple verb 'do', 'perform' implies a level of formality, skill, or public observation. When you perform a task, you are often following a set of steps or meeting a specific standard. This is why we use it for complex activities like surgery, scientific experiments, or official duties. You don't just 'do' a heart transplant; you perform it because it requires precision and specialized training. This sense of the word is ubiquitous in workplace environments, where 'performance reviews' measure how well an employee executes their responsibilities. In this context, the word is synonymous with 'execute' or 'carry out'.

The Artistic Dimension: The second major branch of meaning relates to the arts and entertainment. To perform is to entertain an audience by acting, singing, dancing, or playing music. This usage shifts the focus from the 'completion' of a task to the 'presentation' of a skill. When an actor is on stage, they are performing a role. When a musician is in a concert hall, they are performing a concerto. This nuance suggests a separation between the individual and the act; the performer is 'putting on' a display for others to witness. It captures the energy of the stage and the interaction between the creator and the observer.

The local theater group will perform 'Hamlet' every night this week to a sold-out crowd.

Beyond humans, 'perform' is frequently applied to machines and systems. If a car 'performs well', it means it functions efficiently, handles corners smoothly, and accelerates as expected. In the world of technology, we talk about 'high-performance computing' or how a software application 'performs' under heavy user load. Here, the word bridges the gap between 'working' and 'excelling'. It suggests a metric of quality. If a computer performs poorly, it is slow or prone to errors. This technical usage is essential for anyone working in engineering, IT, or data analysis, as it provides a professional way to describe the efficacy of a system.

Social and Ritual Contexts: In sociology and linguistics, 'perform' takes on a deeper meaning. We speak of 'performing' gender or social roles. This suggests that much of our daily behavior is a kind of act dictated by societal expectations. Furthermore, in legal or religious contexts, one might 'perform a ceremony' or 'perform a marriage'. This indicates that the actions are not just physical movements but have a symbolic or legal weight that changes the status of the participants. The word 'perform' thus carries a sense of transformative power.

The priest was asked to perform the wedding ceremony at the seaside chapel.

In summary, 'perform' is a word that travels from the operating room to the Broadway stage, and from the engine block to the wedding altar. It is a word about action, but action that is measured, observed, or ritualized. Whether you are a student performing an experiment, an athlete performing a routine, or a server performing a task, the word highlights the skill and intent behind what you are doing. It elevates the mundane to the level of the professional and the artistic.

The new engine was designed to perform optimally even in extreme weather conditions.

She was nervous to perform her solo in front of such a large and critical audience.

Colloquial Usage: While 'perform' is often formal, you will hear it in casual conversation when discussing sports or hobbies. 'How did your team perform yesterday?' is a common way to ask about the quality of their play. It shifts the focus from the final score to the actual effort and skill displayed during the game. It is a more nuanced way of evaluating success than simply asking 'Did they win?'.

Using 'perform' correctly requires understanding its transitivity. It can be used with an object (transitive) or without one (intransitive). When used transitively, you specify the task or the art piece being executed. For example, 'The surgeon performed the operation.' Here, 'the operation' is the direct object. This structure is common in professional reports, news articles, and formal descriptions of events. It provides a clear link between the actor and the specific action taken. In artistic contexts, you might say, 'The band performed their greatest hits,' where 'greatest hits' is the object. This structure is straightforward and emphasizes the content of the performance.

Intransitive Usage: When used intransitively, 'perform' often focuses on the quality or manner of the action. You might say, 'The stock market performed poorly this quarter.' In this case, there is no direct object; instead, the focus is on the adverb 'poorly' which describes the nature of the performance. This is very common when discussing machines, athletes, or financial instruments. It allows the speaker to evaluate the effectiveness of something without needing to list every specific action it took. 'The athlete performed well under pressure' highlights the psychological strength and skill of the individual during the competition.

If you want the car to perform at its best, you must change the oil regularly.

Another important aspect of using 'perform' is its relationship with modal verbs and tenses. Because it often describes a planned or skilled action, it is frequently paired with 'will', 'can', or 'must'. 'The choir will perform at the cathedral' suggests a scheduled event. 'The robot can perform delicate tasks' describes a capability. In the past tense, 'performed' is used to report on completed actions: 'The team performed an exhaustive search of the area.' Note how the word 'exhaustive' adds to the sense of 'perform' as a thorough, professional action. This is a common pattern: pairing 'perform' with adjectives that describe the quality or intensity of the work.

Passive Voice: In formal writing, 'perform' is often used in the passive voice to focus on the action rather than the person doing it. 'The experiment was performed in a controlled environment.' This is standard in scientific papers where the identity of the researcher is less important than the methodology used. Using the passive voice with 'perform' adds an air of objectivity and professionalism to the text. It suggests that the action followed a standardized protocol that anyone with the right training could replicate.

A series of tests were performed to ensure the bridge was safe for heavy traffic.

Finally, consider the use of 'perform' in the continuous tense ('performing'). This is used to describe an action currently in progress, especially on a stage. 'The dancers are performing a traditional folk dance.' It creates a sense of immediacy and vividness. In a business context, 'We are performing a routine audit' suggests an ongoing process. This continuous form is vital for providing status updates or describing live events as they unfold. By mastering these different sentence structures, you can use 'perform' to describe everything from a high-stakes surgery to a casual musical set at a local cafe.

The software is performing an automatic update, so please do not turn off your computer.

He has performed this magic trick hundreds of times, yet it still amazes the crowd.

Common Collocations: To sound more natural, learn common word pairings. We perform 'duties', 'tasks', 'experiments', 'operations', 'songs', 'plays', and 'miracles'. We also perform 'well', 'badly', 'adequately', or 'brilliantly'. These combinations are the building blocks of fluent English and will help you use 'perform' in a way that sounds native and professional.

You will encounter the word 'perform' in a wide variety of real-world settings, each giving the word a slightly different flavor. In the world of **entertainment**, 'perform' is the standard verb for what happens on a stage. If you go to a concert, the announcer might say, 'Tonight, we are proud to have the London Symphony Orchestra perform for you.' In theater reviews, critics will discuss how an actor 'performed the role of Macbeth'. In this setting, the word is associated with talent, rehearsal, and the magic of live performance. It’s a word that carries the weight of the arts and the dedication of the artist.

In the Workplace: In a corporate or office environment, 'perform' is used to talk about productivity and job responsibilities. During an annual review, a manager might say, 'You have performed your duties exceptionally well this year.' Here, the word is tied to 'Key Performance Indicators' (KPIs), which are metrics used to measure success. You'll also hear it in technical discussions: 'The new server is performing much faster than the old one.' In these contexts, 'perform' is a serious, professional word that focuses on results and efficiency.

The company's stock began to perform better after the new CEO announced the restructuring plan.

In **medicine and science**, 'perform' is the essential verb for procedures and tests. A doctor doesn't just 'do' a surgery; they 'perform a surgery'. A scientist 'performs an experiment' or 'performs an analysis'. This usage emphasizes the methodical, careful nature of the work. If you are watching a medical drama on TV, you will hear the characters use this word constantly to describe the high-stakes actions they are taking. It conveys a sense of expertise and procedural correctness that is vital in these fields.

In News and Media: News reports frequently use 'perform' when discussing government actions or public services. 'The police performed a welfare check on the elderly resident.' 'The charity performed a vital role in the disaster relief efforts.' In these cases, 'perform' highlights the official or necessary nature of the action. It sounds more authoritative than 'did' or 'helped'. You will also see it in financial news: 'Emerging markets performed strongly last month,' which describes the upward trend of investments in those regions.

The rescue team performed a daring helicopter extraction to save the stranded hikers.

Finally, you'll hear 'perform' in **everyday technology usage**. Your phone might tell you it is 'performing a system optimization'. A website might be 'performing maintenance'. In our digital lives, 'perform' describes the background tasks that keep our world running. It suggests that the machine is actively working on our behalf. Whether it's a pop star on a world tour, a surgeon in a theater, or a computer running a script, 'perform' is the word we use to describe the execution of skilled, purposeful, and often complex actions.

The magician will perform his final act at midnight, right before the fireworks start.

It is crucial that every employee perform their safety checks before starting the machinery.

In Education: Teachers often talk about how students 'perform' on tests or in class. 'The class performed well on the algebra exam.' This usage focuses on the demonstration of knowledge and the results achieved through study and effort. It is a standard way to discuss academic achievement without being overly personal.

One of the most common mistakes learners make with 'perform' is **overusing it for simple, everyday tasks**. Because 'perform' sounds sophisticated, students often try to replace 'do' or 'make' with it in contexts where it doesn't fit. For example, saying 'I performed my breakfast' or 'I performed a walk' sounds very strange to a native speaker. 'Perform' is reserved for tasks that require a specific skill, a set of steps, or a public audience. For routine, personal actions, stick to simpler verbs. Think of 'perform' as a 'high-level' verb; if the action is mundane, the word is likely too heavy for the sentence.

Confusing 'Perform' with 'Play': In the context of music and sports, learners often confuse 'perform' and 'play'. While you can 'perform a song' or 'play a song', you generally 'play a sport' but 'perform a routine' (in sports like gymnastics or figure skating). You wouldn't say 'I performed football yesterday.' Use 'play' for games with rules and opponents, and 'perform' for artistic displays or specific technical movements. Similarly, an actor 'plays a character' but 'performs a scene'. The distinction is subtle but important for sounding natural.

Incorrect: He performed a game of tennis.
Correct: He played a game of tennis.

Another frequent error involves **preposition usage**. 'Perform' is usually followed directly by its object without a preposition. Some learners mistakenly add 'to' or 'with'. For instance, 'He performed to the song' is okay if he is dancing to it, but if he is singing it, it should be 'He performed the song.' Likewise, you don't 'perform with an operation'; you 'perform an operation'. Always check if the action is the direct result of the verb. If it is, no preposition is needed. This direct connection is what makes the verb feel powerful and decisive.

Misusing the Intransitive Form: When using 'perform' to describe how something works, learners sometimes forget to include an adverb. Saying 'The car performs' is incomplete; a native speaker will wait for you to say 'how' it performs. You must add 'well', 'badly', 'efficiently', etc. The only exception is in very specific technical contexts where 'perform' might imply 'meeting the minimum requirements', but even then, it is rare. Always qualify the performance with a descriptive word to ensure your meaning is clear.

Incorrect: The new computer performs.
Correct: The new computer performs excellently.

Finally, be careful with the **noun 'performance' vs. the verb 'perform'**. Sometimes learners use the noun when they need the verb. 'The band gave a perform' is incorrect; it should be 'The band gave a performance' or 'The band performed.' This is a common word-family error. Remember that 'perform' is the action, while 'performance' is the event or the quality of that action. Keeping these two straight will help you build more complex and accurate sentences as you progress in your English studies.

Incorrect: I want to performance on stage.
Correct: I want to perform on stage.

Incorrect: She performed a great effort.
Correct: She made a great effort.

Spelling and Pronunciation: Don't forget the 'r' in the middle! Some learners spell it 'peform'. Also, ensure the stress is on the second syllable: per-FORM. Misplacing the stress can make the word hard for native speakers to recognize in fast speech.

While 'perform' is a powerful word, English offers many alternatives depending on the specific context. Understanding these nuances will help you choose the most precise word for your needs. The most common synonym is **'carry out'**. This is a phrasal verb that is slightly less formal than 'perform' but much more common in everyday speech. You can 'carry out a plan', 'carry out an order', or 'carry out research'. It feels active and practical. If you want to sound professional but not overly stiff, 'carry out' is often the best choice for describing tasks and duties.

Perform vs. Execute: **'Execute'** is even more formal than 'perform'. It suggests a very high level of precision or the fulfillment of a legal or technical command. A computer 'executes a program'. A soldier 'executes an order'. A lawyer 'executes a will'. While you can 'perform a task', 'executing a task' implies that the task was done exactly according to a pre-defined plan. Use 'execute' when you want to emphasize the exactness or the official nature of the action.

The gymnast executed a flawless triple flip to win the gold medal.

In the world of entertainment, **'act'**, **'play'**, and **'stage'** are useful alternatives. 'Act' is specific to drama: 'He acted in the local play.' 'Play' is used for instruments: 'She plays the violin beautifully.' 'Stage' is used when someone organizes or presents a performance: 'The school staged a production of Grease.' These words are more specific than 'perform' and help the listener visualize the exact type of entertainment being provided. Using 'perform' is a good general term, but these alternatives add color and detail to your descriptions.

Perform vs. Function: When talking about machines or systems, **'function'** and **'operate'** are key synonyms. 'Function' focuses on whether something works at all: 'The remote is not functioning.' 'Operate' focuses on the act of using a machine: 'He knows how to operate the crane.' 'Perform', as we've seen, focuses on *how well* it works. So, a machine might 'function' (it works), but it might not 'perform well' (it is slow or inefficient). Choosing between these depends on whether you are talking about basic utility or qualitative success.

The software functions correctly, but it doesn't perform as fast as we hoped.

Finally, consider **'fulfill'** and **'discharge'**. These are used for duties and obligations. 'He fulfilled his duties as a citizen.' 'The officer discharged his responsibilities.' These are very formal and often found in legal or official documents. They imply a sense of duty and completion. While you can 'perform a duty', 'fulfilling' it sounds more like you have met a requirement or a promise. By expanding your vocabulary with these synonyms, you can tailor your language to the specific tone and context of your conversation or writing.

The actor was able to portray the character's emotions vividly during the performance.

The scientist will conduct a series of tests to verify the results.

Summary of Alternatives: - **Do/Carry out**: General tasks.
- **Execute**: Formal/precise tasks.
- **Act/Stage**: Theater/drama.
- **Play**: Music/sports.
- **Function/Operate**: Machines.
- **Fulfill**: Duties/promises.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

Neutral

Informal

Child friendly

Slang

Fun Fact

The 'm' at the end of 'perform' is actually a result of a historical spelling error! The original French word ended in 'n' (parfournir), but it was influenced by the Latin word 'formare' (to form), leading to the 'm' we use today.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /pəˈfɔːm/

US /pərˈfɔːrm/

The stress is on the second syllable: per-FORM.

Rhymes With

form storm warm norm inform reform conform transform swarm platform

Common Errors

Pronouncing it as 'PRE-form' instead of 'per-FORM'.
Dropping the 'r' sound in the middle (e.g., 'pe-form').
Stress on the first syllable.
Confusing the vowel sound in 'form' with 'farm'.
Making the first syllable too strong.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

The word is common in news and stories, making it easy to recognize.

Writing 3/5

Choosing between 'perform', 'do', and 'make' can be tricky for learners.

Speaking 3/5

Pronunciation is usually fine, but using it naturally in conversation takes practice.

Listening 2/5

It is usually clearly pronounced in formal and artistic contexts.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

do make show work play

Learn Next

execute conduct efficiency procedure ritual

Advanced

performativity manifestation implementation enactment attainment

Grammar to Know

Transitive vs. Intransitive

Transitive: 'He performed the song.' Intransitive: 'He performed well.'

Passive Voice for Procedures

The operation was performed by a specialist.

Gerund as Subject

Performing in public can be very scary.

Adverb Placement

The car performed *reliably* during the trip.

Infinitive after Ability

The robot has the ability to perform complex tasks.

Examples by Level

The children perform a dance for their parents.

Les enfants font une danse pour leurs parents.

Present simple tense for a regular or scheduled action.

I will perform a song at the party.

Je vais chanter une chanson à la fête.

Future with 'will' for a promise or plan.

Does the band perform today?

Est-ce que le groupe joue aujourd'hui ?

Question form using 'does'.

She can perform magic tricks.

Elle peut faire des tours de magie.

Modal verb 'can' shows ability.

They perform in the street.

Ils jouent dans la rue.

Present simple for a general fact.

We perform a play at school.

Nous jouons une pièce à l'école.

Subject-verb-object structure.

He likes to perform for his friends.

Il aime jouer pour ses amis.

Infinitive 'to perform' after the verb 'likes'.

The dog can perform many tricks.

Le chien peut faire beaucoup de tours.

Using 'perform' for animal actions.

The doctor will perform the operation tomorrow morning.

Le médecin fera l'opération demain matin.

Formal use of 'perform' for a medical task.

Our team performed well in the competition.

Notre équipe a bien joué dans la compétition.

Past simple 'performed' with the adverb 'well'.

The computer performs tasks very quickly.

L'ordinateur effectue les tâches très rapidement.

Third person singular 'performs'.

She had to perform her duties as a manager.

Elle devait accomplir ses devoirs de manager.

Using 'perform' with 'duties'.

The choir is performing at the cathedral tonight.

La chorale chante à la cathédrale ce soir.

Present continuous for a scheduled future event.

How does the new car perform on the highway?

Comment la nouvelle voiture se comporte-t-elle sur l'autoroute ?

Intransitive use asking about quality.

They performed an experiment in the science lab.

Ils ont fait une expérience dans le laboratoire de sciences.

Standard collocation: 'perform an experiment'.

The actor performed the role perfectly.

L'acteur a joué le rôle parfaitement.

Transitive use with 'role' as the object.

The company performed an audit of all its financial records.

L'entreprise a effectué un audit de tous ses dossiers financiers.

Professional context using 'perform' for a formal check.

He was nervous about performing in front of a live audience.

Il était nerveux à l'idée de jouer devant un public en direct.

Gerund 'performing' after the preposition 'about'.

The software is designed to perform multiple functions at once.

Le logiciel est conçu pour effectuer plusieurs fonctions à la fois.

Infinitive of purpose 'to perform'.

The athlete performed a series of warm-up exercises.

L'athlète a effectué une série d'exercices d'échauffement.

Using 'perform' for a sequence of actions.

The orchestra performed a beautiful symphony by Mozart.

L'orchestre a interprété une magnifique symphonie de Mozart.

Formal artistic usage.

The machine performed poorly during the initial testing phase.

La machine a mal fonctionné pendant la phase de test initiale.

Intransitive use with the adverb 'poorly'.

It is important to perform a safety check before every flight.

Il est important d'effectuer un contrôle de sécurité avant chaque vol.

Impersonal 'It is... to' structure.

The singer performed her latest hit on the morning talk show.

La chanteuse a interprété son dernier succès dans l'émission matinale.

Transitive use in a media context.

The surgeon had to perform a delicate procedure to save the patient's sight.

Le chirurgien a dû effectuer une procédure délicate pour sauver la vue du patient.

High-stakes professional context.

The stock market has performed exceptionally well over the last decade.

Le marché boursier s'est exceptionnellement bien comporté au cours de la dernière décennie.

Present perfect tense for a duration of time.

She performed the ceremony with great dignity and grace.

Elle a accompli la cérémonie avec beaucoup de dignité et de grâce.

Using 'perform' for ritualistic actions.

The robot is capable of performing complex calculations in milliseconds.

Le robot est capable d'effectuer des calculs complexes en quelques millisecondes.

Adjective + preposition 'capable of' followed by a gerund.

The witness was asked to perform a reconstruction of the events.

On a demandé au témoin d'effectuer une reconstitution des événements.

Passive voice 'was asked to perform'.

The engine was performing at its peak capacity during the race.

Le moteur fonctionnait à sa capacité maximale pendant la course.

Past continuous for a specific moment in time.

They performed a thorough analysis of the soil samples.

Ils ont effectué une analyse approfondie des échantillons de sol.

Academic/Scientific collocation.

The band performed an encore after the crowd refused to leave.

Le groupe a joué un rappel après que la foule a refusé de partir.

Specific musical term 'encore'.

The government was criticized for failing to perform its constitutional duties.

Le gouvernement a été critiqué pour ne pas avoir rempli ses devoirs constitutionnels.

Formal political and legal context.

In his latest book, the philosopher argues that we perform our identities through daily rituals.

Dans son dernier livre, le philosophe soutient que nous jouons nos identités à travers des rituels quotidiens.

Sociological use of 'perform'.

The algorithm performed significantly better when trained on a larger dataset.

L'algorithme a obtenu de bien meilleurs résultats lorsqu'il a été entraîné sur un ensemble de données plus vaste.

Technical/AI context.

The actress's ability to perform such a demanding role night after night is remarkable.

La capacité de l'actrice à interpréter un rôle aussi exigeant soir après soir est remarquable.

Noun phrase 'ability to perform'.

The company must perform a cost-benefit analysis before proceeding with the merger.

L'entreprise doit effectuer une analyse coûts-avantages avant de procéder à la fusion.

Strategic business terminology.

The priest performed the last rites for the dying man.

Le prêtre a administré les derniers sacrements à l'homme mourant.

Specific religious ritual.

The study was performed to determine the long-term effects of the medication.

L'étude a été réalisée pour déterminer les effets à long terme du médicament.

Passive voice in a scientific context.

He performed the task with such nonchalance that it seemed effortless.

Il a accompli la tâche avec une telle nonchalance qu'elle semblait sans effort.

Descriptive use focusing on style.

The linguistic theory posits that certain utterances perform the very actions they describe.

La théorie linguistique postule que certains énoncés accomplissent les actions mêmes qu'ils décrivent.

Performative language theory.

The intricate machinery of the state continues to perform its functions despite the political upheaval.

Les rouages complexes de l'État continuent d'exercer leurs fonctions malgré les bouleversements politiques.

Metaphorical use for systemic operations.

The artist's work explores how we perform gender in a digital age.

Le travail de l'artiste explore la manière dont nous mettons en scène le genre à l'ère numérique.

Contemporary sociological/artistic discourse.

The high-frequency trading system is designed to perform thousands of transactions per second.

Le système de trading à haute fréquence est conçu pour effectuer des milliers de transactions par seconde.

Advanced financial technology context.

To perform one's duty in the face of certain defeat is the highest form of courage.

Accomplir son devoir face à une défaite certaine est la plus haute forme de courage.

Philosophical/Ethical usage.

The software must perform flawlessly under the most extreme stress tests.

Le logiciel doit fonctionner sans faille lors des tests de résistance les plus extrêmes.

Engineering/QA terminology.

The ritual was performed in total silence, heightening the sense of solemnity.

Le rituel a été accompli dans un silence total, renforçant le sentiment de solennité.

Descriptive passive voice.

The dancer's body seemed to perform the music rather than just move to it.

Le corps du danseur semblait interpréter la musique plutôt que de simplement bouger dessus.

Metaphorical artistic usage.

Synonyms

do carry out execute stage present achieve

Antonyms

fail neglect ignore

Common Collocations

perform an operation

perform a task

perform well

perform live

perform a ritual

perform an experiment

perform a duty

perform a song

perform under pressure

perform a miracle

Common Phrases

perform a service

— To do something helpful for someone else, often as a job.

The local library performs a vital service for the community.

perform a function

— To serve a specific purpose or role within a system.

Each part of the engine performs a specific function.

perform a role

— To act as a character or to fulfill a specific responsibility.

She performed the role of the hero in the school play.

perform an analysis

— To study something carefully and in detail.

The experts performed an analysis of the market trends.

perform a check

— To examine something to make sure it is correct or safe.

The pilot performed a final check of the controls.

perform a search

— To look for something systematically.

The police performed a search of the building.

perform a ceremony

— To lead or take part in a formal public or religious event.

The mayor performed the opening ceremony for the new park.

perform a calculation

— To use math to find an answer.

The computer can perform millions of calculations per second.

perform an act

— To do something, often something brave or significant.

He was honored for performing an act of bravery.

perform a routine

— To do a sequence of actions that are regularly followed.

The gymnast performed her floor routine perfectly.

Often Confused With

perform vs play

You 'play' a game or an instrument, but you 'perform' a song or a routine.

perform vs do

'Do' is for general actions; 'perform' is for skilled or public actions.

perform vs make

You 'make' a mistake or a cake, but you 'perform' a task or a duty.

Idioms & Expressions

"perform a disappearing act"

— To suddenly leave or become impossible to find.

Just when we needed him to help, he performed a disappearing act.

informal

"perform to the gallery"

— To behave in a way that is intended to impress the public or gain popularity.

The politician was accused of performing to the gallery rather than focusing on policy.

formal/political

"perform a balancing act"

— To try to satisfy two or more groups of people who have different needs.

The manager is performing a balancing act between the workers and the owners.

neutral

"perform a U-turn"

— To completely change a policy or decision.

The government performed a U-turn on the new tax laws after the protests.

political/journalistic

"perform miracles"

— To achieve something that seems impossible.

Our tech support team performed miracles to get the site back up so quickly.

informal

"perform like a charm"

— To work perfectly or very effectively.

I fixed the old clock, and now it performs like a charm.

informal

"perform one's heart out"

— To perform with great energy, passion, and effort.

The young singer performed her heart out at the audition.

informal

"perform a post-mortem"

— To analyze an event after it has happened to see why it failed or succeeded.

The team performed a post-mortem on the failed project to learn from their mistakes.

business/professional

"perform above and beyond"

— To do much more than what is expected or required.

She performed above and beyond her duties during the crisis.

professional

"perform a high-wire act"

— To do something very dangerous or difficult where a small mistake could be disastrous.

The CEO is performing a high-wire act with these new investments.

metaphorical

Easily Confused

perform vs Performance

It is the noun form of the verb.

Perform is the action (verb); performance is the event or the quality of the action (noun).

The actor will perform (verb) in tonight's performance (noun).

perform vs Preform

It sounds very similar and is often a spelling error.

Preform means to shape something in advance; perform means to carry out an action.

The plastic was preformed into a bottle shape before the final step.

perform vs Reform

Similar ending.

Reform means to change something to make it better; perform means to do something.

The government wants to reform the education system.

perform vs Conform

Similar ending.

Conform means to follow rules or behave like others; perform means to act or work.

You must conform to the safety regulations.

perform vs Inform

Similar ending.

Inform means to give information; perform means to do a task.

Please inform me when the performance starts.

Sentence Patterns

Subject + perform + [task]

The doctor performed the surgery.

Subject + perform + [adverb]

The band performed beautifully.

Subject + [modal] + perform + [task]

You must perform a safety check.

[Task] + was performed + by + [person]

The experiment was performed by the students.

Subject + is capable of + performing + [task]

The machine is capable of performing high-speed tasks.

After + performing + [task], + Subject + [verb]

After performing the audit, the team found several errors.

It is vital that + Subject + [subjunctive] perform + [duty]

It is vital that the officer perform his duties impartially.

The way in which + Subject + performs + [abstract noun]

The way in which she performs her identity is fascinating.

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Highly frequent in professional, technical, and artistic English.

Common Mistakes

I performed a mistake. → I made a mistake.
'Perform' is for skilled, intentional actions. Mistakes are usually accidents.
The band performed a game. → The band played a game.
You 'play' games; you 'perform' shows or specific routines.
I performed my homework. → I did my homework.
Homework is a routine task, not a skilled 'performance' in the formal sense.
The car performs. → The car performs well.
When used for machines, 'perform' needs an adverb to describe the quality.
She is a good perform. → She is a good performer.
'Perform' is a verb; 'performer' is the noun for a person.

Tips

Use for Skills

Always use 'perform' when the action requires special training or skill, like playing a violin or doing surgery.

Business Reports

In a job interview or a report, use 'perform' to describe your responsibilities. It sounds much more impressive than 'do'.

Adverb Buddy

When using 'perform' to describe how something works, always add an adverb like 'well', 'fast', or 'reliably'.

Stage Presence

Remember that 'perform' implies an audience, even if that audience is just a supervisor or a group of scientists.

Common Pairs

Memorize 'perform an operation' and 'perform an experiment' as single units of meaning.

Formal Tone

If you are writing a formal letter, 'perform' is almost always better than 'do'.

Be Specific

Instead of saying 'He performed', say 'He performed a song' or 'He performed well' to be clear.

News Watch

Listen for this word in financial news; it's the standard way to talk about how companies are doing.

Stress Check

Practice saying 'per-FORM' with the stress on the second part to sound more like a native speaker.

Don't Overuse

Don't use 'perform' for simple daily chores like cleaning or cooking; it sounds too dramatic!

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a 'PERfect FORM'. To perform well, you need to have the perfect form, whether you are an athlete, a singer, or a surgeon.

Visual Association

Imagine a spotlight on a stage. Under the spotlight, someone is doing something important—either singing into a microphone or performing a complex surgery. The spotlight represents the 'performance'.

Word Web

Stage Duty Skill Audience Action Result Machine Surgery

Challenge

Try to use 'perform' in three different ways today: once for a task you did, once for a show you saw, and once for how your phone or computer is working.

Word Origin

The word 'perform' comes from the Old French word 'parformer', which was a variation of 'parfournir'. This, in turn, comes from 'par-' (thoroughly) and 'fournir' (to furnish or provide).

Original meaning: The original meaning in the 14th century was to 'carry out, finish, or complete' a task or duty.

Indo-European > Italic > Romance > French > English.

Cultural Context

Be careful when using 'perform' to describe religious rituals; ensure you use it respectfully as it implies a sacred duty.

In the US and UK, 'performance' is a buzzword in business, often used to motivate employees to work harder.

The phrase 'The show must go on' is the ultimate motto for anyone who performs. Shakespeare's 'All the world's a stage' refers to the idea that we all perform roles in life. The 'Performance Art' movement of the 1960s challenged what it meant to perform.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Music and Theater

perform a solo
perform on stage
perform a play
perform live

Medicine

perform surgery
perform an operation
perform a test
perform a check-up

Business

perform a duty
perform an audit
perform well
perform a review

Science

perform an experiment
perform an analysis
perform a calculation
perform a study

Technology

perform an update
perform a function
perform a task
perform optimally

Conversation Starters

"Have you ever had to perform in front of a large audience?"

"How does your computer perform when you have many apps open?"

"Which band would you most like to see perform live?"

"Do you think you perform better in the morning or in the evening?"

"What is the most difficult task you have ever had to perform at work?"

Journal Prompts

Describe a time you had to perform a difficult task. How did you feel before and after?

Write about a performance (concert, play, or movie) that really impressed you.

How do you measure how well you perform in your daily life and responsibilities?

If you could perform any skill perfectly, what would it be and why?

Reflect on the idea that we 'perform' different roles for different people in our lives.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, you should say 'make a mistake'. 'Perform' is usually used for tasks that require skill or are intentional. Making a mistake is usually unintentional and doesn't fit the professional or artistic tone of 'perform'.

Not at all! While it's very common in the arts, it's also used in medicine (perform surgery), science (perform an experiment), and business (perform a duty). It's a very versatile word for any skilled action.

'Carry out' is a bit more common in everyday speech, while 'perform' is more formal. You can use 'carry out' for almost anything you 'perform', but 'perform' sounds more professional in a report or on a stage.

You use it to describe how well the car works. For example, 'The car performs well on wet roads.' This means the car is safe and easy to drive even when it's raining.

Yes! If an animal does a trick for an audience, we say it 'performs'. For example, 'The seal performed a trick with a ball.' It implies the animal was trained to show a skill.

Yes, it can be. For example, in the phrase 'performing arts', 'performing' describes the type of arts (like dance or music) that involve a live show.

It means to do a good job even when you are in a very stressful situation, like a big game or a difficult exam. It's a very common phrase in sports and business.

A performer is a person who performs, especially someone like an actor, singer, or dancer who entertains an audience.

No, that sounds very strange. You should say 'take a walk' or 'go for a walk'. 'Perform' is for more complex or formal actions.

The past tense is 'performed'. For example, 'The band performed all their hits last night.'