applaud them for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "applaud them for" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to acknowledge someone for something they have done or achieved. For example: "Everyone in the company applauded them for their hard work and dedication."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

I applaud them for still using me".

Independent

"I applaud them for that," he said.

The New York Times

But I applaud them for trying it".

The New York Times - Sports

"I applaud them for experimenting with different revenue streams".

The New York Times

"I applaud them for that, I honestly do.

The Guardian - Sport

You have to applaud them for making these changes".

The Guardian - Sport

"I applaud them for wanting to do good," he said.

The Guardian

"I applaud them for having recognized the error of their ways," Mr. Schaeffer said.

The New York Times

"Sometimes when they're done we even applaud them for entertaining us".

The New York Times

"And you have to applaud them for their perseverance, dedication and discipline to overcome those odds.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

"I applaud them for trying to make their measurements better".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "applaud them for", ensure the reason for your applause is clear and specific to maximize the impact of your praise.

Common error

While "applaud them for" is generally appropriate, avoid overusing it in very casual or informal settings where simpler expressions of approval might be more suitable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "applaud them for" functions as a verb phrase expressing approval, admiration, or commendation for someone's actions or qualities. This is consistent with the examples provided by Ludwig, where it's used to acknowledge positive efforts or achievements.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "applaud them for" is a versatile phrase used to express strong approval and admiration, as confirmed by Ludwig. It's grammatically sound and frequently found in news, business, and scientific contexts. While predominantly neutral to professional in tone, it's essential to use it judiciously in very informal settings. Alternatives like "praise them for" or "commend them for" can be used based on the level of formality required.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

praise them for

Replaces "applaud" with a more general term for expressing approval.

commend them for

Suggests a more formal and official expression of praise.

recognize them for

Focuses on acknowledging their achievements or qualities.

salute them for

Implies a strong admiration and respect, often for courageous actions.

acknowledge them for

Highlights the act of formally recognizing their contributions.

credit them for

Gives them acknowledgment for a specific accomplishment or contribution.

give them credit for

Similar to "credit them for" but emphasizes the act of giving recognition.

extol them for

A more literary and elevated way of expressing praise.

acclaim them for

Highlights widespread approval and recognition.

laud them for

Synonymous with "praise" but often used in more formal contexts.

FAQs

How can I use "applaud them for" in a sentence?

You can use "applaud them for" to express strong approval or admiration. For example, "I applaud them for their dedication to the project" or "We applaud them for their efforts in promoting sustainability".

What are some alternatives to "applaud them for"?

Alternatives include "praise them for", "commend them for", or "recognize them for", depending on the level of formality and emphasis you want to convey.

Is "applaud them for" formal or informal?

"Applaud them for" is generally considered appropriate for both formal and semi-formal contexts. However, it might sound slightly emphatic in very casual conversations.

What's the difference between "applaud them for" and "congratulate them for"?

"Applaud them for" expresses admiration for their actions or qualities, while "congratulate them for" is used to express pleasure at their success or good fortune. You applaud effort; you congratulate achievement.