a standing ovation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a standing ovation" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
Example: The famous singer's powerful performance earned her a standing ovation from the entire audience.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A standing ovation followed.

The New Yorker

They got a standing ovation.

The New Yorker

She received a standing ovation.

The New York Times

DeLay received a standing ovation.

The New Yorker

He got a standing ovation.

The New York Times

Kerik received a standing ovation.

The New Yorker

He received a standing ovation.

The New York Times

(She got a standing ovation).

The New Yorker

I received a standing ovation.

The New York Times

He gets a standing ovation.

The Economist

He garnered a standing ovation.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a performance, speech, or event, use "a standing ovation" to convey the impact and success of the moment. It adds weight to your description and implies a highly positive audience reaction.

Common error

Avoid using "ovation" without specifying that it was a standing one if you intend to convey exceptional enthusiasm. Simply saying someone received "an ovation" doesn't necessarily imply the audience rose to their feet, diminishing the impact.

How to use

Learn how to use "a standing ovation" with practical examples and tips.

How to use

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a standing ovation" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as the object or subject in a sentence. It describes a specific type of enthusiastic applause, as demonstrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Academia

9%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

28%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a standing ovation" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe an enthusiastic form of applause where the audience rises to their feet. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical soundness. It is frequently found in News & Media sources, conveying strong approval or admiration. When aiming for variety, consider using alternatives like "thunderous applause" or "rapturous applause". Remember, using "a standing ovation" appropriately adds impact to your writing by emphasizing the overwhelmingly positive reception of a performance or event.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ovation

A shorter, more direct synonym for enthusiastic applause.

thunderous applause

Emphasizes the loudness and intensity of the applause.

rapturous applause

Highlights the audience's overwhelming enthusiasm and delight.

heartfelt applause

Stresses the sincerity and emotional depth of the appreciation.

a rousing reception

Implies an energetic and spirited welcome.

an enthusiastic reception

Focuses on the positive and warm welcome received.

tumultuous applause

Suggests a noisy and chaotic, but positive, reaction from the audience.

acclamation

A formal term indicating enthusiastic approval or praise.

applause

A simpler way to say applause without indicating the level of enthusiasm of the audience

a warm reception

Indicates a friendly and positive welcome, though not necessarily involving applause.

FAQs

How can I use "a standing ovation" in a sentence?

You can use "a standing ovation" to describe a highly enthusiastic response from an audience, such as: "The speaker's powerful message earned "a standing ovation" from the crowd."

What's the difference between "applause" and "a standing ovation"?

"Applause" is general and simply means clapping. "A standing ovation" indicates a much stronger level of approval and enthusiasm, where the audience rises to their feet while applauding.

What can I say instead of "a standing ovation"?

You can use alternatives like "thunderous applause", "rapturous applause", or "an enthusiastic reception" to describe a very positive audience response.

Is it grammatically correct to say "a standing ovations"?

No, the correct phrase is "a standing ovation" (singular) or "standing ovations" (plural). "A standing ovations" is grammatically incorrect.