perform vs ply

perform is not a noun while ply is a noun.

Word	Noun	Adjective	Verb	Adverb
perform	No	No	Yes	No
ply	Yes	No	Yes	No

As verbs, ply is a hyponym of perform; that is, ply is a word with a more specific, narrower meaning than perform:

perform (noun)	ply (noun)
	(usually in combinations) one of several layers of cloth or paper or wood as in plywood
	one of the strands twisted together to make yarn or rope or thread; often used in combination

perform (verb)	ply (verb)
carry out or perform an action	give what is desired or needed, especially support, food or sustenance
give a performance (of something)	use diligently
get (something) done	wield vigorously
perform a function	join together as by twisting, weaving, or molding
	travel a route regularly
	apply oneself diligently