deafening ovation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "deafening ovation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a loud and enthusiastic applause or approval from an audience, typically after a performance or speech. Example: "The actor received a deafening ovation at the end of the play, with the audience standing and cheering for several minutes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

He threw for three touchdowns and ran for another, leaving in the fourth quarter to one final deafening ovation.

The New York Times - Sports

His speech was interrupted throughout with claps from the audience before the peroration was greeted with a deafening ovation.

The Guardian

It was an encounter that brought together two icons of the sport and both men entered the arena to a deafening ovation.

Independent

It was the loudest roar of the night, a deafening ovation during the pregame introductions that was meant to boost Marcus Camby's spirits.

The New York Times - Sports

A Kimmo Timonen shot, a close-range rebound from Gagne, a last-minute shot from Jeff Carter — Niemi stopped them all, and after the game was given an extended, deafening ovation from the sellout crowd at the United Center.

The New York Times - Sports

Midway through second song 1000 Deaths – an electrifying percussive assault reimagining Sly Stone's Thank You (Falettinme Be Mice Elf Agin) as industrial funk-rock – he halts the band and holds his arms out in a crucifixion pose, and is greeted by a deafening ovation: he is not only back from the wilderness, but he is sharper and stronger than before.

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

About 600 girls, many of Bangladeshi origin, many wearing headscarves, at a comprehensive rated outstanding by Ofsted but in one of Britain's most deprived boroughs, offered a whooping, deafening standing ovation.

Independent

The congregants burst into a deafening standing ovation that lasted for minutes and continued as Benedict left the basilica, standing on a wheeled platform, smiling and waving at the people lining the nave of the cavernous Baroque church.

The New York Times

Deafening standing ovation for @jeremycorbyn as he appears on stage at final 'thank you rally'.People are going crazy pic.twitter.com/loRRPPEopN Corbyn's success came despite accusations of anti-Semitism, racism and blistering criticism from his opposition and even Labour MPs.

Independent

As he came out on to the track, Farah triggered a deafening standing ovation from the capacity home crowd.

BBC

The home crowd of 47,271 erupted, giving him a deafening standing ovation, and the Cubs who were on the field waited in front of his dugout to congratulate him.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "deafening ovation" to vividly portray a moment of extreme appreciation and approval from an audience, particularly after a noteworthy performance, speech, or achievement. It's most effective when you want to emphasize the sheer volume and intensity of the applause.

Common error

Avoid using "deafening ovation" for situations where the applause is merely polite or moderately enthusiastic. This phrase is best reserved for instances of truly exceptional and overwhelming appreciation to maintain its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "deafening ovation" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where 'deafening' acts as an adjective modifying the noun 'ovation'. It describes the quality or intensity of the applause. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "deafening ovation" is a grammatically sound and vividly descriptive phrase used to convey an exceptionally loud and enthusiastic round of applause. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correctly used across various contexts, particularly within news and media. While not the most frequent phrase, its impact is undeniable when emphasizing moments of intense appreciation. When seeking alternatives, consider "thunderous applause" or "standing ovation", tailoring your choice to the specific nuance you wish to express.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

thunderous applause

Implies a strong and prolonged applause, similar to a "deafening ovation", but focusing more on the sound quality.

overwhelming applause

Focuses on the intensity and force of the applause, similar to "deafening ovation", but emphasizing the emotional impact.

resounding applause

Indicates a clear and powerful applause, highlighting the clarity and impact of the sound.

standing ovation

Describes the physical act of the audience standing while applauding, often implying high praise, and sometimes, but not necessarily, a great sound level.

deafening cheers

Replaces 'ovation' with 'cheers', focusing on vocal expressions of approval, but conveying a comparable intensity.

tumultuous applause

Suggests a noisy and excited applause, emphasizing the energy and enthusiasm of the audience.

boisterous applause

Emphasizes the lively and energetic nature of the applause, suggesting a cheerful and spirited reaction.

rapturous applause

Highlights the intense joy and pleasure expressed through applause, suggesting a strong emotional connection.

enthusiastic acclaim

Shifts the focus from sound to the overall positive reception and approval, suitable for contexts beyond immediate performance.

heartfelt appreciation

Conveys sincere gratitude and recognition, but may not necessarily involve audible applause.

FAQs

How can I use "deafening ovation" in a sentence?

You can use "deafening ovation" to describe a moment of intense applause, such as, "The singer received a "deafening ovation" after her breathtaking performance."

What's a good alternative to "deafening ovation"?

Alternatives include "thunderous applause", "standing ovation", or "overwhelming applause", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "deafening ovation" in formal writing?

Yes, "deafening ovation" is appropriate in formal writing when accurately describing a moment of intense and loud applause. However, ensure the context warrants such a strong descriptor.

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

"Deafening ovation" implies a much greater intensity and volume than "loud applause". The former suggests the sound is almost painfully loud, while the latter simply indicates a noticeable level of clapping.