Perform
/pərˈfɔːrm/
Definitions
3 meaningsTo execute or carry out an action or activity.
/pərˈfɔːrm/
To carry out, accomplish, or fulfill an action, task, or function.
The surgeon will perform the operation tomorrow.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're following a recipe: to perform the steps means to actually do them, like baking a cake. It's about doing what's needed or expected!
👶 For kids: To do something, like a dance or a job.
More Examples
The students performed well on the exam.
Please perform your assigned tasks.
How It's Used
"She performed her duties diligently."
"The company needs to perform well to remain competitive."
To entertain an audience by acting, singing, or playing music.
/pərˈfɔːrm/
To present a play, concert, or other form of entertainment.
The orchestra will perform a symphony.
💡 Simply: Think of a stage show! When actors perform, they're showing off their talents for everyone to enjoy, like a concert or play!
👶 For kids: To act or sing in front of people.
More Examples
She performed a solo dance.
He performed several magic tricks.
How It's Used
"The band will perform at the festival this weekend."
"The actors performed the play beautifully."
To function or operate in a particular way, often referring to a machine or a person's capabilities.
/pərˈfɔːrm/
To function or operate in a particular way.
The engine performs efficiently.
💡 Simply: Imagine a car or a machine, or even an athlete. When we say they perform, we're talking about how well they do their job, whether it's running smoothly or playing a great game!
👶 For kids: To work or do something well.
More Examples
Her investments performed well over the year.
The computer performs slowly.
How It's Used
"The new software performs flawlessly."
"The athlete performed exceptionally well."
Synonyms
Accomplish
Complete
Do
Execute
Fulfill
Act
Behave
Function
Operate
Idioms & expressions
perform a task
To complete or carry out a specific duty or activity.
"The engineer was assigned to perform a task of data analysis."
perform well
To achieve a high standard or success.
"The team performed well in the competition."
From Middle French *parfournir* ('to accomplish, execute'), from Old French *par-* ('thoroughly') + *fournir* ('to furnish, provide'), from Latin *pro- ('forth, forward') + *ferō* ('I bear, carry').
The word 'perform' has been used since the 15th century to mean to carry out or accomplish a task. Its use in entertainment came later.
Memory tip
Think of a performer on stage – they *perform* an act.