standing ovation

USAGE SUMMARY

"standing ovation" is a perfectly correct phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe an enthusiastic and prolonged applause of approval. For example: At the end of his speech, the audience gave the Prime Minister a standing ovation.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

Standing ovation?

The New York Times - Arts

A standing ovation followed.

The New Yorker

A. Standing ovation.

The New York Times

Standing ovation greets him.

The New Yorker

Standing ovation for Goodwin.

The Guardian - Sport

Standing ovation, girls screaming.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

Standing ovations!

The New York Times

Congress gave him standing ovations.

The New York Times

(The screenings drew standing ovations).

The New York Times

There are standing ovations, and there are standing ovations.

The New Yorker

Both performances were received with standing ovations.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "standing ovation" to vividly describe a moment of exceptional approval and enthusiasm, particularly after a performance, speech, or significant achievement. It implies a strong positive reaction from the audience.

Common error

Avoid using "standing ovation" to describe mild applause or routine appreciation. This dilutes the phrase's impact and can sound hyperbolic or insincere. Reserve it for truly remarkable occasions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "standing ovation" primarily functions as a noun phrase, typically used as the object of a verb (e.g., received, gave, got). Ludwig AI confirms this usage with numerous examples where the phrase denotes a form of enthusiastic approval.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "standing ovation" is a common noun phrase used to describe an audience's enthusiastic approval, characterized by rising to their feet while applauding. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in news and media contexts. While "standing ovation" signifies strong approval, it's crucial to reserve it for genuinely remarkable moments to avoid diluting its impact. Alternatives like "thunderous applause" or "rousing reception" can be used to vary your language while conveying similar sentiments. Using "standing ovation" appropriately enhances the impact and credibility of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ovation

A shorter, more formal term for enthusiastic applause.

thunderous applause

Emphasizes the loudness and intensity of the applause.

rapturous applause

Highlights the ecstatic and deeply appreciative nature of the applause.

tumultuous applause

Suggests a noisy and excited reaction from the audience.

heartfelt applause

Highlights the sincerity and emotional depth of the applause.

resounding applause

Focuses on the clear and powerful sound of the applause.

a rousing reception

Focuses on the warm and energetic welcome received.

enthusiastic clapping

A more general term for showing approval with hands.

cheering and applause

Combines vocal approval with clapping.

acclamation

Implies a formal and public expression of approval or praise.

FAQs

How is "standing ovation" typically used in a sentence?

The phrase "standing ovation" usually functions as a noun. For example, "The speaker received a "standing ovation" after their powerful speech" or "The performance concluded with a "standing ovation" from the audience".

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

"Applause" is a general term for clapping to show approval. A "standing ovation" is a specific, more enthusiastic form of applause where the audience rises to their feet to show exceptional appreciation.

What are some synonyms for "standing ovation"?

Synonyms for "standing ovation" include "thunderous applause", "ovation", "rousing reception", and "tumultuous applause", each conveying a similar sense of strong approval.

Is it correct to say "received a standing ovation"?

Yes, it is perfectly correct and a very common way to use the phrase "standing ovation". Other correct usages include "gave a "standing ovation"" or "concluded with a "standing ovation"".