Nonperformative

Characterizing actions, statements, or behaviors that lack the intended outcome or impact, often due to a disconnect between the expressed sentiment and actual follow-through. It implies an emphasis on appearances or pronouncements rather than concrete actions, resulting in a perceived lack of sincerity or effectiveness. A nonperformative act prioritizes the appearance of doing something over the tangible accomplishment, conveying a sense of hollowness or superficiality. It highlights the gap between stated goals and the actions taken to achieve them, suggesting a focus on self-promotion or social signaling instead of genuine engagement.

Nonperformative meaning with examples

• Her advocacy on social media, filled with emotional pleas but lacking any concrete volunteer work or donations, felt incredibly nonperformative. Many questioned the sincerity of her support for the cause, viewing it as a means of gaining validation rather than contributing meaningfully.
• The company's commitment to environmental sustainability was widely criticized as nonperformative. Despite the glossy brochures highlighting their green initiatives, their manufacturing processes continued to pollute and little was done to mitigate this issue.
• The politician’s speeches, filled with soaring rhetoric about equality, were nonperformative when juxtaposed against their voting record and policy proposals which consistently undermined those ideals. Actions spoke louder than their words.
• The influencer's constant posts about self-care, while never taking time away from their phone, appeared distinctly nonperformative. Their advice felt shallow and out-of-touch, lacking any genuine reflection or lived experience. The audience questioned the advice.
• Buying a 'Black Lives Matter' t-shirt but remaining silent about systemic racism when opportunities arise is an example of nonperformative activism. It demonstrates a superficial level of engagement without any substantive action.