Spontaneous applause

USAGE SUMMARY

"spontaneous applause" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe applause that occurs naturally and without prompting, often in response to a performance or speech. For example, "The audience erupted in spontaneous applause after the final act." Alternative expressions include "unprompted applause" and "impromptu applause."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Spontaneous applause.

The New York Times

Spontaneous applause erupts.

The Guardian - Travel

Spontaneous applause breaks out at the Metropolitan Playhouse.

The New York Times

Spontaneous applause broke out across the trading floor and bets were placed on which one of Mr. Thain's highly paid lieutenants would be next.

The New York Times

Still the spontaneous applause broke out.

Independent

Several Ethiopians present burst into spontaneous applause.

The Guardian

When he'd finished, the room broke into spontaneous applause.

The Guardian

When the speech ended, Seiken was given spontaneous applause.

Independent

"Once it was over everyone burst into spontaneous applause.

Independent

There was spontaneous applause followed by the national anthem.

Independent

The faithful, packed into the pews, rose in spontaneous applause.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a performance or speech, follow "spontaneous applause" with details about the specific moment that triggered the reaction for greater impact.

Common error

While "spontaneous applause" is widely understood, consider using more formal terms like "ovation" or "acclamation" in official reports or academic papers to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "spontaneous applause" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a verb. It describes an action or event, such as in the example, "Spontaneous applause erupted." The examples from Ludwig confirm this usage, with instances appearing in various sentence structures.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Academia

10%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "spontaneous applause" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe a genuine expression of approval. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears frequently in news and media, with occasional use in academic contexts. While versatile, it is best suited for neutral to semi-formal settings, with more formal alternatives available for official or academic writing. To enhance your writing, focus on detailing the specific moment that triggers the reaction. Be mindful of overuse in highly formal contexts and consider stronger synonyms.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Applause erupted

Focuses on the sudden outburst of applause, emphasizing the intensity of the reaction.

A burst of applause

Emphasizes the sudden and energetic nature of the applause.

Audience applauded

Highlights the action of the audience offering applause.

An ovation began

Focuses on a more enthusiastic and prolonged form of applause.

Clapping commenced

More formal and descriptive, indicating the start of applause.

A round of applause ensued

Emphasizes the sequence of events, with applause following a particular action or statement.

Hands clapped together

Describes the physical action of applauding, focusing on the sound.

Cheers resounded

Indicates loud vocal approval in addition to or instead of clapping.

Acclaim echoed

Implies widespread and enthusiastic approval.

Approval resonated

Highlights the feeling of approval that spread through the audience.

FAQs

What does "spontaneous applause" mean?

It refers to applause that happens naturally and without planning or prompting, usually as a genuine reaction to something impressive or moving.

Is it redundant to say "spontaneous applause erupted"?

While "erupted" implies suddenness, using it with "spontaneous applause" isn't strictly redundant. It emphasizes the force and immediacy of the reaction, reinforcing the unprompted nature of the applause.

What are some alternatives to "spontaneous applause"?

Depending on the context, you could use "applause erupted", "a burst of applause", or "ovation began".

How formal is the phrase "spontaneous applause"?

The phrase is generally suitable for neutral to semi-formal contexts. In highly formal or academic writing, consider alternatives like "acclamation" or "ovation".