a thunder of applause

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a thunder of applause" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a loud and enthusiastic response from an audience, typically after a performance or speech. Example: "As the curtain fell, the actor was met with a thunder of applause from the audience, signaling their appreciation for the performance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

At a concert!" When the appearance of the conductor, Mark Laycock, brought a thunder of applause, the baby decided to add her own special sounds.

The New York Times

In our world, when the powers-that-be made the mistake of letting Mandelstam give a public reading, and he cried out: "I am the contemporary of Akhmatova!" to a thunder of applause, it was only as if blossoms had burst open in the auditorium.

The Guardian - Books

It can be done! and It will continue to be done!" A thunder of applause broke out.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

And as a rich thunder of applause rolled out at the end of the evening, it felt somehow cleansing, the fug and the stickiness of a muggy July evening momentarily dissolved.

The Guardian

He left his particular stage for the last time, to a thunder of fireworks and applause.

The New York Times - Sports

He prefers the one-on-one to the thunder of applause, this banquet dinner adoration.

Huffington Post

There, among the leading writers of her country, perched on the westernmost edge of Europe, at the start of the new millennium, Keegan left the podium to the hush of profound awe and then the thunder of applause that greets the fresh appearance of talent.

Los Angeles Times

The audience interrupted midway through the six-song group with a roar of applause for its highlight, a thundering, blustering account of the ramshackle epic "General William Booth Enters Into Heaven".

The New York Times - Arts

The Huddersfield Chronicle and West Yorkshire Advertiser on November 30, 1850, wrote, "The performances of Boz's Juba have created quite a sensation in the gallery, who greeted his marvellous feats of dancing with thunders of applause and a standing encore.

Wikipedia

The New Yorker, September 19 , 1925P. 1 During tryout of "Canary Dutch" at Stamford, after curtain had come down to thunders of applause on second night, Mr. Belasco summoned his company.

The New Yorker

We must all move-up together by opening our eyes to the gifts sown in the souls of each of you, waiting for the thunder of our applause.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a thunder of applause" to vividly describe a powerful and sustained reaction from an audience. This phrase is particularly effective when the applause is both loud and prolonged, indicating strong approval or appreciation.

Common error

Avoid using "a thunder of applause" in contexts where the applause is only moderate or polite. This phrase is most impactful when reserved for truly exceptional or noteworthy moments, as overuse can diminish its effect.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a thunder of applause" functions as a noun phrase that vividly describes the intensity and volume of applause. It emphasizes the powerful and sustained nature of the audience's reaction. Ludwig's examples illustrate its use in describing enthusiastic responses to performances and speeches.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Academia

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a thunder of applause" is a phrase used to describe a powerful and enthusiastic audience reaction. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct. While relatively rare in occurrence, it effectively conveys strong approval or appreciation, making it suitable for descriptive writing in news and media or academic contexts. Consider using alternative phrases like "a roar of applause" or "a storm of applause" for similar effect. Reserve this phrase for moments when the applause is truly exceptional to maintain its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a roar of applause

Uses "roar" to suggest a louder and more sustained sound.

a storm of applause

Implies a tumultuous and overwhelming reaction.

a wave of applause

Emphasizes the sequential and spreading nature of the applause.

resounding applause

Indicates a clear and impactful sound of applause.

an explosion of applause

Highlights the sudden and forceful nature of the applause.

a torrent of applause

Conveys a continuous and abundant flow of applause.

deafening applause

Suggests an extremely loud level of applause, almost overwhelming.

a burst of applause

Suggests a brief and intense expression of approval.

enthusiastic applause

Emphasizes the excitement and fervor behind the applause.

heartfelt applause

Focuses on the genuine and sincere nature of the applause.

FAQs

What does "a thunder of applause" mean?

The phrase "a thunder of applause" describes a very loud, sustained, and enthusiastic applause, similar to the sound of thunder, indicating strong approval or appreciation.

How can I use "a thunder of applause" in a sentence?

You might say, "The orchestra received "a thunder of applause" after their breathtaking performance" to indicate the audience's overwhelming approval.

What are some alternatives to "a thunder of applause"?

Alternatives include "a roar of applause", "a storm of applause", or "a wave of applause", which all suggest a strong and positive reaction from an audience.

Is "a thunder of applause" a formal or informal expression?

While not overly formal, "a thunder of applause" is best suited for descriptive writing or situations where a strong, vivid image is desired. More casual settings might simply use "applause" or "lots of applause".