ovation

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "ovation" is correct and usable in written English.
It is generally used to refer to an enthusiastic reception of someone or something, especially one expressed by extended applause; especially, a formal expression of approval or respect. For example, "The crowd rose to their feet in an ovation as the band finished their final song."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Later, the Queen was given a five-minute standing ovation as she went on to the stage to meet performers after a gala concert at the Dublin Conference Centre.

The Guardian

82 min: Tottenham substitution: Jermain Defoe off, to a standing ovation.

The Guardian - Sport

In his first speech from the floor for more than 20 years, he incensed the party leadership and won a standing ovation from many constituency delegates, some of whom used the debate to criticise Tony Blair for sending his son Euan to a grant-maintained school.

The Guardian

A crowd of more than 5,000 people gathered in the Kop at Anfield gave a standing ovation to the chair of the Hillsborough Family Support Group, Margaret Aspinall, who promised to see their campaign for justice through to its conclusion.

The Guardian - Sport

They gave the Queen rapturous applause and a standing ovation.

The Guardian

A true legend, flanked by the men who followed him in the Athletic goal, Iribar was given a standing ovation.

The Guardian - Sport

The assailant : Eric Cantona By Darren Tulett Barefoot and bearded, his long hair swept back, Eric Cantona strides towards me in a red beach-football kit, his imposing physique seeming to fill the corridor of the Paris arena where soon he will receive the biggest ovation of this star-filled night.

The Guardian - Sport

Ayresome Park honoured the losers with a standing ovation.

The Guardian - Sport

On Thursday the outgoing Italian prime minister, Mario Monti, comprehensively trounced in the election, attended a European commission conference in Brussels where he enjoyed a standing ovation almost as if he had been the victor.

The Guardian

Cameron was also given a remarkable standing ovation as he criticised what he said were "complete and utter lies" from Labour on the NHS.

The Guardian

When Dan Jarvis, MP for Barnsley, moved to the podium to give the keynote address at the Progress conference on Saturday afternoon, the audience gave such a long, standing ovation it almost turned into a collective plea to make him change his mind and reverse his decision not to stand for the Labour leadership.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "ovation" when you want to emphasize a sustained and enthusiastic display of appreciation, especially in a formal setting such as a performance or speech.

Common error

Avoid using "ovation" to describe ordinary or polite applause. An "ovation" signifies exceptional enthusiasm and prolonged clapping, distinguishing it from simple appreciation.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "ovation" is that of a noun, referring to a sustained and enthusiastic show of appreciation, typically through applause. Examples from Ludwig highlight its use in describing the reception of performances, speeches, and achievements. Ludwig AI confirms the correct and usable nature of the word.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

23%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "ovation" is a noun used to describe an enthusiastic and sustained display of appreciation, primarily through applause. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and frequently employed in various contexts, especially within the news and media. While its usage is generally neutral to formal, care should be taken not to overuse it for mild applause. Alternatives like "round of applause" or "acclamation" can be considered depending on the specific nuance desired. The most common form of "ovation" is "standing ovation".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

standing ovation

Emphasizes the audience's enthusiastic and unanimous approval by rising to their feet.

acclamation

Provides a more formal synonym for enthusiastic approval or praise.

rapturous applause

Highlights the intense joy and delight conveyed by the applause, making it more effusive than a simple "ovation".

enthusiastic applause

Specifies the type of applause, emphasizing the positive and energetic nature of the appreciation.

tumultuous applause

Suggests a loud, excited, and potentially chaotic expression of approval.

round of applause

Replaces "ovation" with a more general term for showing appreciation through clapping.

warm reception

Offers a broader term that can encompass applause, cheers, and other forms of welcoming or acceptance.

heartfelt appreciation

Shifts the focus from the act of applause to the genuine emotion of gratitude and recognition.

public tribute

Highlights the formal and public nature of the acknowledgment or recognition.

expression of gratitude

Focuses on conveying thankfulness and appreciation for someone's actions or achievements.

FAQs

How is "ovation" typically used in a sentence?

The word "ovation" is usually employed as a noun, such as in sentences like "The performer received a standing ovation" or "Her speech was met with an ovation".

What's the difference between an "ovation" and "applause"?

While both terms relate to showing approval through clapping, an "ovation" signifies a more enthusiastic and prolonged display than simple "applause". An "ovation" often involves a standing "ovation" as well.

When is it appropriate to use the term "standing ovation"?

A "standing ovation" is fitting when the audience is so moved or impressed that they rise to their feet to applaud, indicating exceptional admiration or gratitude. It should not be used lightly.

Are there formal alternatives to using the word "ovation"?

Yes, you could use terms like "acclamation" or "tribute" to convey a similar sense of high praise and public recognition, particularly in more formal or written contexts.