respectful applause

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "respectful applause" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a type of applause that is given in a manner that shows admiration or appreciation, often in a formal or serious context. Example: "After the speaker finished their presentation, there was a moment of respectful applause from the audience, acknowledging the importance of the topic discussed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Arts

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

Respectful applause.

The New Yorker

Zuidam received respectful applause; Golijov won a shouting, stomping ovation.

The New Yorker

Mr. Grandage and his team received respectful applause.

The New York Times - Arts

The small crowd erupted into prolonged, respectful applause.

The New York Times - Magazine

They stayed silent, then broke into spontaneous, respectful applause at the end.

The New York Times

The remaining fans around the San Antonio bench gave him respectful applause.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

In the stands, early muffled hilarity gave way to respectful silence, applause, shouted encouragement.

The New Yorker

Their respectful but perfunctory applause hearkened Cordelia's expressions of subdued respect to King Lear: "I love your Majesty According to my bond, no more nor less".

Huffington Post

The jockey stopped to sign the man's programme with a respectful nod and applause rolled across the darkening racecourse.

The Guardian - Sport

John Paul Jones has said the song's first performance, at Ulster Hall in Belfast in March 1971, won no plaudits from the crowd – "They were all bored to tears waiting to hear something they knew" – though bootlegs of the show have it ending to perfectly respectful and sustained applause.

The Guardian - Music

5.47pm BST First set: Murray 3-1 Monfils* (*denotes server): Every point Monfils wins is going to be cheered wildly, so the crowd sounds a bit miffed that they're having to give Murray so much respectful but muted applause, such as when he speeds forward to put away a volley for 15-30.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "respectful applause" to describe situations where the audience wishes to show appreciation and admiration in a formal or serious context.

Common error

Avoid using "respectful applause" when the audience is expressing enthusiastic or celebratory approval, as this phrase indicates a more restrained and formal reaction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "respectful applause" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a specific type of applause characterized by its politeness and regard. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is commonly found in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Sports

15%

Arts

10%

Less common in

Social Media

2%

Wiki

1%

Science

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "respectful applause" is a noun phrase used to describe a specific type of applause given in a manner that shows admiration and appreciation, often in formal or serious contexts. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While alternatives like "appreciative clapping" and "courteous applause" exist, "respectful applause" emphasizes the decorum and politeness associated with the applause. It's commonly found in news and media, as well as arts and sports contexts, indicating its relevance in describing audience reactions across various events.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

appreciative clapping

Focuses on the positive feeling behind the applause, rather than the decorum.

courteous applause

Emphasizes the politeness and good manners associated with the applause.

polite clapping

A more straightforward way to express the same idea, focusing on the politeness.

muted applause

Indicates a restrained form of applause, suggesting deference or solemnity.

reserved applause

Highlights the controlled nature of the applause, implying a degree of formality.

dignified applause

Suggests a formal and honorable kind of applause.

subdued applause

Implies a quiet or gentle applause, possibly due to a serious or somber occasion.

measured applause

Indicates a deliberate and controlled applause, avoiding excessive enthusiasm.

formal applause

Highlights the formality of the applause

tacit approval

While not explicitly applause, this implies unspoken agreement or approval acknowledged by the audience.

FAQs

How can I use "respectful applause" in a sentence?

You can use "respectful applause" to describe a situation where an audience claps in a manner that shows admiration or appreciation, often in a formal setting. For example, "The speaker received "respectful applause" after delivering a moving speech."

What are some alternatives to "respectful applause"?

Alternatives to "respectful applause" include "appreciative clapping", "courteous applause", or "polite clapping", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "respectful applause" the same as "enthusiastic applause"?

"Respectful applause" indicates a more measured and formal response, while "enthusiastic applause" suggests excitement and strong approval. The former is often used in serious or formal settings, whereas the latter is appropriate for celebratory occasions.

When is it appropriate to use "respectful applause"?

It's appropriate to use "respectful applause" when describing an audience's reaction in situations that call for decorum and a show of admiration, such as after a eulogy, a significant achievement, or a thought-provoking presentation.