What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
actor
Example
The actor delivered an outstanding performance in the play. [actor: noun]
Example
She has been acting in movies for over a decade. [acting: gerund or present participle]
performer
Example
The performer wowed the crowd with her amazing singing voice. [performer: noun]
Example
He is a talented performer who can juggle, dance, and do magic tricks. [performer: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Actor is more commonly used than performer in the context of plays, movies, and television shows. However, performer is more versatile and can be used to describe a wider range of art forms and performances.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between actor and performer?
Actor is typically associated with a more formal tone, especially in the context of theater and film. Performer, on the other hand, can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the type of performance being described.
