Sometimes they really are: that is called a bad performance.

In a way, this kind of performance called for a toast: here's to your health.

He managed to get to his feet but it wasn't what you would call a particularly perpendicular performance.

Ring magazine called Jones' performance the most dominant of any big fight in 20 years.

But in a film of a performance called "Stage Clothes," it comes to life.

The Independent called it a "smooth performance" while pointing out that the field may have been below the usual standard.

He called this a "stunning performance" and said it must be sustained if the economy was to rebound.

"I have to call it a disappointing performance, although I am proud of our defense."

Instead, she skated what she called her best performance in a year.

Anyone familiar with a negotiating stance will call this a final performance at his or her peril.