perform
8 synonyms and 0 antonyms for perform, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To carry out an action or task.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use perform
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Anglo-Norman performer, an alteration of Old French parfornir, "to complete, accomplish", from par- + fornir ("to furnish").
Full origin of perform →Frequently asked questions
What does “perform” mean?
The word “perform” means to carry out an action or task. In plain terms, to do a task, put on a show, or work at a certain level.
How do you pronounce “perform”?
“Perform” is pronounced puh-FAWM (/pɚˈfɔɹm/ in IPA).
How do you use “perform” in a sentence?
Here is “perform” used in a sentence: “The surgeon performed the operation without complications.”
What part of speech is “perform”?
“Perform” is a verb.
Where does the word “perform” come from?
The word “perform” comes from Old French. From Anglo-Norman performer, an alteration of Old French parfornir, "to complete, accomplish", from par- + fornir ("to furnish").
Is “perform” a common word?
“Perform” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
How many meanings does “perform” have?
“Perform” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to carry out an action or task.
What is the difference between perform and execute?
Both mean to carry out an action, and they often overlap. 'Perform' is the everyday word for doing a task or duty, while 'execute' sounds more technical or formal and stresses completing something precisely, as with a plan or command. You perform surgery or a role; you execute an order or a program.
Does 'perform' always mean to entertain on stage?
No. Performing on stage — singing, acting, playing music — is one common sense, but 'perform' more broadly means to carry out any action or task. A machine can perform a function, a student can perform well in an exam, and a doctor can perform an operation. Context shows whether an audience is involved.
What is an example of the word perform?
You might perform a task at work, perform a safety check before driving, or perform your duties as a volunteer. A device can perform a calculation, and a team can perform well under pressure. In each case something is being carried out or accomplished, which is the core meaning of the verb.