a wave of applause

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a wave of applause" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a sudden and enthusiastic response of clapping from an audience, often in reaction to a performance or speech. Example: "After the final act, the audience erupted in a wave of applause, showing their appreciation for the incredible performance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

He was interrupted by a wave of applause.

The New Yorker

From time to time, a wave of applause broke out, like a wind-carried ripple.

The New Yorker

But a wave of applause from the generally supportive audience kept him going.

The New York Times

A wave of applause has greeted the president in city after city.

The New York Times

The vitality of her footwork and jumps in the Scottish dance caused a wave of applause through the music.

The New York Times - Arts

The opposition leader, Malcolm Turnbull, broke down as he, too, apologized, prompting a wave of applause from audience members, Mr. Humphreys among them.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

Bush simply said "thank you" as a wave of raucous applause rose from the assembled.

The New York Times - Magazine

After the game, the winner hears a wave of gentle applause; the loser hears taps.

The New York Times - Tech

After a wave of excited applause died down, he continued, "We're basically hoping to do nine or 10 episodes, with almost one character per episode".

The New York Times

Mr. Bush, a 23-year-old pre-law student, displayed not a flicker of nervousness as he strolled across the stage to a wave of excited applause.

The New York Times

In response, Robert M. Mackia, whose speech drew a wave of loud applause from the "anti" Faction, called for "a clear state ment of the secret conditions of the acceptance of the Leh man Collection" that require to be in the park.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context to decide if "a wave of applause" accurately reflects the audience's response. If the applause is sudden and explosive, "a burst of applause" might be more suitable. If it's gentle and spreading, "a ripple of applause" could be a better fit.

Common error

Avoid using "a wave of applause" when describing a small or hesitant reaction. This phrase implies a substantial and noticeable surge of approval. For a weaker response, consider using "a smattering of applause" or "polite applause".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a wave of applause" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as the subject or object in a sentence, describing a specific instance of audience reaction. Ludwig examples illustrate its use in conveying enthusiastic approval.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Arts

16%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a wave of applause" is a noun phrase denoting an enthusiastic audience reaction, typically used in neutral registers across news and media, as well as arts contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, while its somewhat infrequent usage makes it a descriptive and vivid choice. Alternative phrases such as "a burst of applause" or "a storm of applause" can offer nuanced ways to portray audience approval, ensuring your writing resonates with precision and flair.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a burst of applause

Emphasizes a sudden and energetic start to the applause, differing in the manner of onset.

a storm of applause

Indicates a more intense and overwhelming applause, highlighting the magnitude of the reaction.

a round of applause

Refers to a structured instance of clapping, commonly used to acknowledge a performance or speaker.

a ripple of applause

Suggests a softer, more subdued applause that spreads gently through the audience.

a surge of applause

Implies a sudden and powerful increase in applause, emphasizing the emotional intensity.

a chorus of applause

Conveys a unified and harmonious applause, focusing on the collective sound of approval.

an outburst of applause

Highlights a spontaneous and unrestrained expression of approval from the audience.

a smattering of applause

Denotes a sparse or scattered applause, indicating a less enthusiastic response.

a sustained applause

Indicates that applause continues for an extended period, signifying strong appreciation.

thunderous applause

Describes an extremely loud and resonant applause, conveying a sense of immense approval.

FAQs

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

You can use "a wave of applause" to describe an enthusiastic reaction from an audience, as in, "The comedian's punchline was met with "a wave of applause"."

What's the difference between "a wave of applause" and "a round of applause"?

"A round of applause" typically refers to a planned or expected instance of clapping, while ""a wave of applause"" suggests a more spontaneous and spreading reaction.

What can I say instead of "a wave of applause"?

You can use alternatives like "a burst of applause", "a storm of applause", or "a ripple of applause" depending on the context and the intensity of the reaction.

Is it correct to say "waves of applause"?

Yes, "waves of applause" is correct and suggests multiple instances or a prolonged period of enthusiastic clapping. For example, "The speaker was interrupted by wave after "wave of applause"".