specific performance

American  

noun

Law.

1. (especially in the sale of land) literal compliance with one's contractual promises pursuant to a judicial mandate.

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specific performance British  

noun

1. law a remedy awarded by a court requiring a person to fulfil obligations under a contract where damages are an insufficient remedy

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Etymology

Origin of specific performance

First recorded in 1870–75

Example Sentences

“If you forced me to make a prediction,” Korobkin said, “I’m going to bet on money damages rather than specific performance, but I wouldn’t bet a lot of money on that.”

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 19, 2026

A seller who tries to walk away may face a different prospect—a suit for specific performance, where the court is asked to force the sale of the property to the buyer, Goldstein said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 6, 2026

Evercore strategist Julian Emanuel identified stocks that could rebound by screening for specific performance, valuation, and market capitalization criteria.

From Barron's • Dec. 22, 2025

The two men obviously came into the debate with some very specific performance strategies and they both did what they needed to do.

From Salon • Oct. 2, 2024

That law enforces, on the plea of either party, "specific performance" of the marriage contract.

From Across the Zodiac by Greg, Percy