English Reference
Compound

main act

compound.
B1 Intermediate

compound.the most important performer or group at a concert or show. They usually perform last after the smaller acts have finished.

compound.the primary performer or ensemble in a multi-act entertainment program, typically receiving top billing and performing the final, longest set.


SIMPLE

We arrived late and almost missed the main act.

CONTEXTUAL

The crowd grew restless during the long wait between the opening bands and the main act.

COMPLEX

While the supporting performers were talented, the main act commanded the stage with a level of charisma that justified their headliner status.

Usage

often used interchangeably with 'headliner' in the context of music festivals and comedy shows.

Teaching tip

contrast this with 'opening act' or 'support act' to help students understand the hierarchy of a performance schedule.

This entry
Level B1 · Intermediate
Updated