Understanding “Performing”: Definition, Synonyms, and Usage
performing – Definition and Part of Speech
The term “performing” is primarily used as a verb in English and refers to executing or carrying out an action, task, or duty. It implies actively engaging in an activity, often one that requires skill or practice, such as performing on stage or performing duties at work. The word can also be found in the gerund form “performing” (e.g., “She enjoys performing”) and in its participial form (as part of continuous tenses like “is performing”).
Core Synonyms
Below is a table of main synonyms for “performing,” each accompanied by a brief definition, example sentence, and suggested style or register:
| Synonym | Brief Definition/Nuance | Example Sentence | Style/Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| Executing | Focusing on the act of carrying out orders or tasks | “The team is executing their plan efficiently.” | Formal/Business |
| Enacting | Involves bringing laws, policies, or roles to life | “The new president is enacting important reforms.” | Academic/Formal |
| Fulfilling | Emphasizes meeting obligations or promises | “She is fulfilling her responsibilities as a volunteer.” | Formal/Institutional |
| Realizing | Suggests bringing an idea or concept into action | “The artist is realizing his vision through his paintings.” | Creative/Creative Writing |
| Carrying out | Implies the completion of duties or tasks | “He’s carrying out his duties with dedication.” | Informal/General |
| Delivering | Focuses on presenting or providing services/tasks | “The speaker was delivering a keynote address to an audience.” | Business/Semi-Formal |
Usage Notes
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Executing: Best suited for formal and business contexts. It implies the systematic completion of tasks, often in line with plans or instructions.
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Enacting: Frequently used in academic or governmental contexts where laws, rules, or policies are being put into effect.
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Fulfilling: Ideal when discussing obligations, commitments, or promises. Often seen in professional or institutional settings to convey responsibility and completion.
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Realizing: Commonly used in creative or artistic domains to express the embodiment of a concept or idea through tangible action.
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Carrying out: A more general term suitable for both informal and formal contexts when referring to task completion, often with an emphasis on process rather than outcome.
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Delivering: Frequently encountered in business and semi-formal settings, especially when referring to presentations, performances, or service provision.
Common Pitfalls
A common confusion arises between “performing” and its synonym “delivering.” While both can be used interchangeably in many contexts (e.g., delivering a performance), “delivering” often carries an additional connotation of presentation or service, particularly when the focus is on the audience’s reception.
Final Recap
To summarize, “performing” has a range of synonyms such as executing, enacting, fulfilling, realizing, carrying out, and delivering, each with its unique nuance and preferred contexts. Understanding these differences can greatly enhance your vocabulary and precision in both written and spoken English.
Encourage yourself to practice using these words in various contexts: crafting sentences for a report, engaging in professional discussions, or simply incorporating them into everyday conversations. This will help solidify their meanings and appropriate usage.