performance-based
UK[pəˈfɔːməns beɪst]US[pərˈfɔːrməns beɪst]
adj
Dependent on or measured by the achievement of specific results or standards.
adj
Relating to a system of payment, evaluation, or promotion that is linked to an individual's or organization's performance.
Morpheme Breakdown
performance
based
performance
based
Etymology
The compound adjective 'performance-based' is a modern formation from the core English words 'performance' and 'based'. 'Performance' itself has a rich history, entering English via French with the sense of completing or carrying out a task thoroughly. 'Based' derives from the concept of a foundation or support. When combined in the late 20th century, particularly in business and management contexts, the term creates a logical metaphor: a system, contract, or reward is figuratively "founded upon" or "supported by" the measurable outcomes ('performance') of work. This reflects a cultural shift towards quantifiable accountability and meritocracy in institutional structures.
Analysis
Structure: performance + based
- performance: From English 'perform' (to carry out, execute) + '-ance' (noun-forming suffix denoting action or process). Origin: 'perform' from Anglo-Norman 'parfourmer', from Old French 'parfournir', from Latin 'per-' (thoroughly) + 'fornire' (to furnish, complete).
- based: From English 'base' (the foundation or support) + '-ed' (adjective-forming suffix). Origin: 'base' from Old French 'bas', from Latin 'basis', from Greek 'basis' (a stepping, a step, that on which one stands).
Examples
She received a performance-based bonus for exceeding her sales targets.
The new curriculum adopts a performance-based assessment model.
Their funding is strictly performance-based and reviewed annually.