applaud

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "applaud" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing approval or praise for someone’s actions or achievements. Example: "I would like to applaud the team for their hard work and dedication in completing the project ahead of schedule."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

At the end of every game, he takes his players into the middle of the field to applaud them.

The Guardian - Sport

Journalist Amitava Kumar, a signatory to the letter, told the Guardian that he knows "a bunch of overdressed writers in a large room getting up to applaud or, for that matter, not applaud an award isn't going to change much in the world.

The Guardian - Books

"I applaud commissioner Ramsey for stepping forward to take a more critical look at the use of force policies and practices within the Philadelphia police department," said Cops director Ronald Davis.

The Guardian

Perhaps it is time to think before we next applaud "cripping up".

The Guardian - Opinion

Which item's destruction would you applaud first?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Did they applaud the Guardian for its expenditure of time and resources in order to reveal the pressures applied by the heir to the throne on elected politicians?

The Guardian

Whether they enjoyed themselves subsequently is debatable, but they were undeniably chuffed at the Norwich gesture in lining up in the tunnel to applaud the losers off the field.

The Guardian - Sport

There was little else to applaud in a budget that was all about marginally rearranging the deckchairs for political advantage.

The Guardian - Opinion

This morning, the headline in Super Deporte lauds: "The mothers that gave birth to you!" Before the game Valencia had been obliged to line up to applaud Madrid onto the pitch for having recently won the Club World Cup.

The Guardian - Sport

Easy to applaud spending money – shame we don't have any".

The Guardian

As much as I applaud Lee Jasper for speaking out, we have to bring the past with us.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "applaud" when you want to express formal approval, often in writing or in more structured settings. For less formal situations, consider alternatives like "praise" or "cheer".

Common error

Avoid using "applaud" in casual conversation where it might sound overly formal or stiff. Opt for more relaxed expressions of approval, like "I like that" or "Good job."

Linguistic Context

Applaud primarily functions as a verb, expressing approval or praise for someone or something. It signifies a positive reaction, often to an action, performance, or idea. Ludwig shows that this word is usable in written english.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "applaud" is a grammatically correct and frequently used verb to express approval or praise. As Ludwig confirms, it appears most commonly in News & Media, Formal & Business, and Science contexts, maintaining a neutral to formal register. When writing, be mindful of the context to ensure it aligns with the formality of "applaud", and consider using synonyms like "praise" or "commend" in less formal settings. Understanding these nuances will help you use "applaud" effectively in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

acclaim

Implies public and enthusiastic praise.

show appreciation

Highlights the act of recognizing and valuing something.

express admiration

Focuses on conveying a feeling of high regard.

hail

Suggests enthusiastic greeting or welcoming with praise.

offer commendation

Indicates formal or official praise.

cheer

Expresses support and approval through shouts of encouragement.

give accolades

Emphasizes bestowing formal praise or awards.

sing the praises of

Suggests enthusiastic and vocal approval.

pay tribute to

Implies honoring someone or something with respect.

extol the virtues of

Emphasizes praising the positive qualities of something.

FAQs

What does it mean to "applaud" someone or something?

To "applaud" means to express approval or admiration, often by clapping your hands. It can also mean to praise someone verbally or in writing.

What can I say instead of "applaud"?

You can use alternatives like "praise", "commend", "acclaim", or "cheer" depending on the context.

How formal is the word "applaud"?

"Applaud" is generally considered a formal way to express approval. In casual settings, simpler words like "praise" might be more appropriate.

When is it appropriate to use "applaud" in writing?

Use "applaud" in formal writing, such as official statements, reports, or when expressing strong approval of a significant action or achievement.