a resounding ovation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a resounding ovation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a loud and enthusiastic expression of approval or praise, typically in response to a performance or speech. Example: "After the final act, the audience erupted into a resounding ovation, showing their appreciation for the incredible performance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Sir Paul, 61, who dedicated songs to the memories of George Harrison and John Lennon, touched off a resounding ovation when he said, "Let's hear it for John".

The New York Times - Books

But speaking to the Sunday Times in an interview marking his 100 days as leader, Mr Corbyn said he was "appalled" by those who gave Mr Benn a resounding ovation.

Independent

It was less remarkable that Mr. Unruh momentarily lost his cool, which was taking quite a beating from a noisy band of hecklers, than that most of the 2,000 students gath ered in the college's sun‐scorched Open Forum gave him a resounding ovation for his outburst.

The New York Times

FIFTEEN years ago, Helgi Tomasson, the celebrated dancer from Iceland, stood onstage at the New York State Theater for the last time as a member of the New York City Ballet, accepting flowers and a resounding ovation for his final performance.

The New York Times - Arts

Oscar had been less influential after the break and shortly after being felled by Bonucci he was replaced by Juan Mata to a resounding ovation from Chelsea's supporters.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Sitting in his wheelchair on the stage of Stockholm's Concert House, Tomas received an extraordinarily prolonged and resounding ovation.

The Guardian - Books

Mahathir, who made Islam a central component of Malaysian identity, made this chilling charge in 1997: "We are Moslems, and the Jews are not happy to see Moslems progress". Perhaps that would help explain the resounding ovation which greeted his screed at a Islamic Leadership Conference in 2003: "The Europeans killed 6 million Jews out of 12 million... but today, the Jews rule the world by proxy.

HuffPost

I can't imagine how it made her feel to have a room full of combat-tested soldiers, most of whom towered over her, give her a resounding and heartfelt standing ovation.

Huffington Post

Coaches' verdict: A resounding yes x 4, with L.A., Britney and Demi giving him a standing ovation.

Huffington Post

A resounding no.

The New York Times

A resounding reason to go.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a resounding ovation" to depict a powerful and unified expression of approval, particularly after a performance, speech, or significant achievement. It conveys both enthusiasm and volume.

Common error

Avoid using "a resounding ovation" to describe simple agreement or everyday occurrences. It should be reserved for situations warranting significant and enthusiastic approval. Consider alternatives like "a resounding yes" or "a resounding success" when describing agreement or accomplishment outside of performance contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a resounding ovation" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb (e.g., received, greeted) or the subject when describing an event. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a resounding ovation" is a grammatically correct and powerful way to describe enthusiastic and unified applause. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it is appropriate for depicting strong approval in response to a performance, speech, or significant event. While generally neutral to formal in register, its descriptive nature lends itself more to news reporting and formal writing. Alternatives like "thunderous applause" or "standing ovation" can be used to express similar sentiments, depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

thunderous applause

Emphasizes the loud and powerful nature of the applause, similar to a rumble of thunder.

standing ovation

Indicates a high level of approval, as the audience rises to their feet while applauding.

enthusiastic applause

Highlights the eagerness and excitement behind the applause.

heartfelt applause

Suggests the applause is genuine and comes from a place of deep appreciation.

rousing cheer

Focuses on the vocal expression of approval, implying loud and spirited cheering.

tumultuous applause

Conveys a sense of wild and unrestrained approval.

vociferous acclaim

Highlights the loudness and intensity of the praise.

great applause

A simpler, more direct way of expressing strong approval through clapping.

warm reception

Indicates a friendly and positive response, though not necessarily as energetic as a resounding ovation.

rave reviews

Focuses on written or spoken evaluations that are highly positive.

FAQs

What does "a resounding ovation" mean?

The phrase "a resounding ovation" refers to a loud and enthusiastic expression of approval, typically involving applause, often accompanied by cheering, indicating strong support or admiration.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a resounding ovation"?

It's appropriate to use "a resounding ovation" when describing a performance, speech, or event that receives exceptionally enthusiastic and unified applause from an audience.

What are some alternatives to "a resounding ovation"?

You can use alternatives like "thunderous applause", "standing ovation", or "enthusiastic applause" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a resounding ovation" formal or informal?

"A resounding ovation" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, but it is generally used when describing a noteworthy event or performance that has garnered exceptional praise.