Performing successfully means to do a job well and achieve the desired outcome. The term can be broken down into two crossword solutions: 'NAIL' and 'carryoff'. 'NAIL' is a four letter word that means to do something with precision and accuracy, while 'carryoff' is an eight letter word that means to complete a task or goal. Together, these two words suggest that performing successfully requires both accuracy and the ability to complete a task.