performative Definition
- 1relating to or denoting an utterance that performs an action by the fact of being uttered, for example 'I apologize' or 'I bet'
- 2relating to or denoting a performance or series of performances of a play, piece of music, or other work of art
Using performative: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "performative" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
In saying 'I promise,' you are performing a performative utterance.
Example
The performative aspect of the play was captivating.
Example
Her dance was a performative expression of her emotions.
performative Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for performative
Summary: performative in Brief
The term 'performative' [perˈfɔːmətɪv] has two main meanings. The first refers to an utterance that performs an action by being spoken, such as 'I apologize.' The second meaning refers to a performance or series of performances of a work of art. Examples include 'In saying 'I promise,' you are performing a performative utterance,' and 'Her dance was a performative expression of her emotions.'