thunderous applause

USAGE SUMMARY

'thunderous applause' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a powerful and enthusiastic reaction to a performance. For example, "At the end of the show, the crowd gave a thunderous applause to the band as they left the stage."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Thunderous applause.

The New York Times

She concluded to thunderous applause.

The New Yorker

This brought thunderous applause.

The New York Times

There was thunderous applause.

The Guardian

He was met with thunderous applause.

The New York Times

The riposte was greeted with thunderous applause.

Independent

The audience burst into thunderous applause.

The New York Times

When both members agreed, they were met with thunderous applause.

The New York Times

"Poor George," Ms. Richards said to thunderous applause.

The New York Times

But it was Sharpton who received the most thunderous applause.

The Guardian

Unheard thunderous applause leads to a handstand by Mr. Tinsman.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "thunderous applause" to vividly depict a strong positive reaction from an audience, typically after a performance, speech, or significant achievement. It adds emphasis to the level of approval or appreciation.

Common error

Avoid using "thunderous applause" in contexts where the reaction was only mildly positive. Reserve this phrase for situations where the applause was genuinely loud, prolonged, and enthusiastic, to prevent exaggeration and maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "thunderous applause" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically used as the object or subject of a verb to describe the act of giving enthusiastic and loud applause. Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Formal & Business

3%

Science

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0.5%

Wiki

0.3%

Reference

0.2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "thunderous applause" is a noun phrase used to describe a strong, positive reaction from an audience. Ludwig AI confirms that it's grammatically correct and very common, particularly in news and media contexts. While generally neutral in register, it effectively conveys enthusiasm and approval. For situations requiring similar but slightly different nuances, consider alternatives like "overwhelming applause" or "resounding applause". To use it effectively, reserve "thunderous applause" for genuinely enthusiastic reactions to avoid hyperbole.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

overwhelming applause

This alternative suggests a very strong and powerful expression of approval, similar to "thunderous applause" but emphasizing the intensity of the emotion.

resounding applause

This phrase emphasizes the deep and full sound of the applause, highlighting its impressive nature in the same way as "thunderous applause".

deafening applause

This alternative underscores the loud and overwhelming nature of the applause, focusing on its audibility and impact.

standing ovation

This indicates that the audience members rose to their feet while applauding, showing a higher level of admiration compared to regular applause.

hearty applause

This option conveys genuine and enthusiastic approval, suggesting a sincere and warm reaction from the audience.

enthusiastic applause

This alternative directly emphasizes the positive and eager nature of the applause, highlighting the audience's excitement.

rapturous applause

This phrase suggests a state of extreme joy or delight, indicating that the audience's applause is filled with intense pleasure.

tumultuous applause

This alternative conveys a sense of disorder or commotion, suggesting that the applause is loud, energetic, and possibly slightly chaotic.

fervent applause

This option stresses the passion and intensity behind the applause, highlighting the audience's deep enthusiasm and emotion.

vociferous applause

This alternative emphasizes the loudness and intensity of the applause, directly pointing out the audience's strong support and approval.

FAQs

How can I describe very strong applause?

You can use the phrase "thunderous applause" to describe very strong and enthusiastic applause. Other alternatives include "overwhelming applause" or "resounding applause".

What's the difference between "thunderous applause" and "polite applause"?

"Thunderous applause" indicates a loud and enthusiastic response, while "polite applause" suggests a more subdued and courteous reaction, often lacking genuine enthusiasm.

Is "thunderous applause" appropriate in formal writing?

Yes, "thunderous applause" is appropriate in formal writing when accurately describing a significantly enthusiastic reaction. It's commonly found in news reports and event descriptions.

Are there any negative connotations associated with "thunderous applause"?

Generally, "thunderous applause" has positive connotations, indicating strong approval. However, in some contexts, it might be used sarcastically to highlight a forced or insincere reaction.