applause

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'applause' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe the sound made by clapping your hands together in appreciation or approval. For example: "The crowd erupted in applause after the inspiring speech."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Huge applause.

The New York Times - Magazine

The strongest elements of Clegg's speech measured by the applause were around this track record in coalition.

The Guardian - Opinion

Farage was the only leader to provoke an emotional reaction, earning laughs and applause from at least two of the male viewers, who had voted Lib Dem and Labour in 2010.

The Guardian

Meryl Streep and Jennifer Lopez led the Dolby theatre audience's applause, the media backstage greeted Arquette like a conquering hero and Hillary Clinton, among others, echoed her denunciation.

The Guardian - Film

The appearance of the Plaid Cymru leader, Leanne Wood, on last week's UK-wide televised leaders' debate, where she deservedly won applause for a doughty duffing of Nigel Farage, should not be allowed to mislead either.

The Guardian - Opinion

Meanwhile, when Nigel Farage sank low with a rant against HIV-positive foreigners, it was Plaid Cymru's Leanne Wood who won applause by telling him he should be ashamed of himself.

The Guardian - Opinion

Some wanted him to get a fifth but the Rayo manager, Paco Jémez, took him off early to give him the applause he deserved.

The Guardian - Sport

While these designs would have kept the Lauren faithful happy – and caused spontaneous applause from the front row – it was the earlier looks that were more interesting, and mixed day and evening to modern effect.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It's dangerous, it divides communities and it creates stigma to people who are ill, and I think you ought to be ashamed of yourself," she told him, prompting the first applause of the evening.

The Guardian

Seventy thousand devotees go crazy, and shower him with the kind of ear-splitting applause that is usually reserved for film stars, rock stars and royalty.

The Guardian - Film

Fifty minutes later, the audience reacted with what he describes as "shocked applause".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a performance or speech, use "applause" to indicate positive audience reaction. Be specific, such as 'spontaneous applause' or 'thunderous applause', to convey the intensity.

Common error

Avoid using "applause" as a verb. The correct verb form is "applaud". Instead of saying 'The audience applause', say 'The audience applauded'.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "applause" is as a noun, referring to the act or sound of clapping hands to express approval or appreciation. As Ludwig AI confirms, the word is correct and usable in English. Examples from Ludwig illustrate its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Formal & Business

16%

Science

16%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "applause" is a versatile noun that effectively conveys approval or appreciation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used. The examples provided by Ludwig show that it frequently appears in news and media, indicating its relevance in reporting public reactions. While alternatives like "ovation" or "acclaim" exist, "applause" remains a common and clear choice for describing the sound and act of clapping. Remember to avoid using "applause" as a verb; instead, use "applaud". Overall, understanding its usage and context ensures effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

applause and cheers

Combines physical and vocal expressions of approval for a more complete recognition.

round of applause

Refers specifically to an instance or occurrence of applauding.

ovation

Signifies a sustained and enthusiastic display of appreciation.

standing ovation

Indicates a particularly enthusiastic form of approval, where people stand while applauding.

acclamation

Denotes a loud and enthusiastic expression of approval.

public acclaim

Emphasizes the public nature of the positive recognition.

positive reception

Highlights the welcoming and favorable response received.

cheering

Implies vocal expressions of approval, alongside or instead of clapping.

kudos

Suggests praise and honor for an achievement.

praise

Offers general expression of admiration and approval.

FAQs

How do you use "applause" in a sentence?

You can use "applause" to describe the sound of clapping. For example, "The speaker was greeted with enthusiastic applause" or "Her performance earned a round of applause".

What can I say instead of "applause"?

You can use alternatives like "acclaim", "ovation", or "cheering" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "give applause"?

While understandable, it's more common and grammatically sound to say "give a round of applause" or simply "applaud".

What is the difference between "applause" and "ovation"?

"Applause" refers generally to the act of clapping, while an "ovation" is a sustained and enthusiastic display of approval, often involving standing.