contrived performance

[kənˈtraɪvd pərˈfɔːrməns]
nounpl: contrived performances
apresentação forçada
1. A deliberate, artificial, or overly calculated display of talent, emotion, or behavior that appears insincere or lacking in natural spontaneity
The actor's contrived performance in the melodrama was criticized by reviewers for being too theatrical and unbelievable.
A apresentação forçada do ator no melodrama foi criticada pelos críticos por ser muito teatral e pouco acreditável.
2. An act or show that seems obviously planned or engineered to create a specific impression rather than expressing genuine sentiment or ability
Her contrived performance of sadness during the interview fooled no one.
Sua apresentação forçada de tristeza durante a entrevista não enganou ninguém.
In both American and Brazilian contexts, a 'contrived performance' is generally viewed negatively, implying inauthenticity. In entertainment criticism, this phrase is frequently used to critique actors, musicians, or public figures who appear to be 'trying too hard' or whose emotional displays seem calculated rather than genuine. Brazilian audiences particularly value 'jogo de cintura' (natural ease and authenticity), making contrived performances subject to social criticism.
NYC Slang
fake performance / put-on act
Synonyms / Sinônimos
artificial performanceforced performancestaged performanceaffected displaytheatrical actinauthentic displaymanufactured performance
Antonyms / Antônimos
natural performanceauthentic performancegenuine displayspontaneous performancesincere performance

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
apresentação forçada
Most common term used in formal and informal contexts
Brazil - Colloquial
atuação artificial
Used when referring specifically to acting or performance arts
Brazil - Informal
show forçado
Common in casual speech and entertainment contexts
Portugal
desempenho artificial
Preferred term in European Portuguese

Related Words

contrivanceartificialityinsincerityaffectationtheatricalityauthenticityspontaneitygenuine expression

Related Idioms & Phrases

putting on an act
it's all smoke and mirrors
a dog and pony show
wearing your heart on your sleeve (opposite)
laying it on thick
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