Bronx cheer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Bronx cheer" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a loud, rude noise made to show disapproval, often imitating the sound of flatulence. Example: "The audience responded to the lackluster performance with a Bronx cheer, making their feelings clear."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Let's dry our socks, And turn the volume down on Fox, Mix up a vat of eggnog, brandied, And fling a last Bronx cheer at Sandy.

The New Yorker

A few weeks ago I performed at a one-night-only live show at Smalls Jazz Club put on by Dan Colen to celebrate the release of his artist's book, A Real Bronx Cheer (2012), published by Fulton Ryder (Richard Prince's publishing imprint).

Huffington Post

Last night Dan Colen and the publisher Fulton Ryder celebrated the release of Colen's new artist book, "A Real Bronx Cheer," at Smalls Jazz Club in the West Village.

The New York Times

OK, New Yorkers and Yankees fans, let's all stand up and give a big Bronx cheer to the new Evil Empire, the Boston Red Sox.

Huffington Post

They booed an umpire's mistake and the ejection of a Chicago coach and player, and they gave a Bronx cheer when the same umpire got a call right.

The New York Times - Sports

One of the best was "A bronx cheer for the great engineer," which had to be explained to Senator Sheppard of Texas.

The New Yorker

I assume Rodriguez will hear a vast, swelling Bronx cheer.

The New York Times - Sports

"No bad shot goes unrewarded with a Bronx cheer.

The New York Times

"You see their sports fans on TV -- the Bronx cheer.

The New York Times

It has the vitality of a Bronx cheer at a stuffy formal dinner.

The Economist

What we call the Bronx cheer is known in Europe as the Bavarian salute.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "Bronx cheer" when you want to specifically evoke the image of a loud, derisive sound, especially in contexts where a more vulgar or aggressive response might be expected.

Common error

Avoid using "Bronx cheer" in formal or polite contexts where its rude and mocking nature would be inappropriate. Opt for more neutral terms like "disapproval" or "criticism" in such situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Bronx cheer" functions as a noun, typically used to describe a specific sound of derision or disapproval. It often serves as a substitute for more vulgar expressions. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Science

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "Bronx cheer" is a widely recognized term for a loud, rude noise expressing disapproval. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. Predominantly found in news and media, this informal term effectively conveys derision, as exemplified by the numerous examples from authoritative sources like The New York Times and The New Yorker. While useful for adding a touch of irreverence, it's crucial to avoid using "Bronx cheer" in formal contexts, opting instead for more neutral terms. Alternatives include "raspberry", "hiss of disapproval", or "expression of derision", depending on the desired level of formality and the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

raspberry

A simpler, more direct term for the same sound of derision.

hiss of disapproval

Focuses on the auditory expression of discontent, rather than the specific sound.

expression of derision

A more formal way to describe the act of showing contempt.

show of contempt

Highlights the feeling behind the action, emphasizing disrespect.

sound of mockery

Emphasizes the auditory aspect of ridicule.

jeer

A general term for expressing disapproval or mockery loudly.

hoot of scorn

Suggests a loud, derisive outburst.

catcall

Implies a more aggressive and often sexually suggestive form of jeering.

thumbs down

A visual gesture indicating disapproval.

negative reaction

A broad term encompassing any unfavorable response.

FAQs

How do you use "Bronx cheer" in a sentence?

The crowd gave the politician a "Bronx cheer" when he announced his unpopular policy. You can also say someone received a "Bronx cheer" for a poor performance.

What's another way to say "Bronx cheer"?

Alternatives include "raspberry", "hiss of disapproval", or "expression of derision", depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "Bronx cheer" in formal writing?

No, "Bronx cheer" is generally considered informal and should be avoided in formal writing. Use more neutral language like "disapproval" or "negative reaction" instead.

What is the origin of the term "Bronx cheer"?

The term "Bronx cheer" is thought to have originated in the early 20th century, associated with the boisterous crowds at sporting events in the Bronx borough of New York City. It refers to a loud, rude noise made to express disapproval.