Meaning 1
To show approval by clapping or another visible expression of praise.
Reach for it when recognizing a performance or achievement in a public, energetic way
The audience rose to applaud the apprentices who rebuilt the organ.
Meaning 2
To state strong approval of a choice, effort, or principle.
Reach for it when publicly commending conduct even when no literal clapping occurs
Residents applaud the decision to keep the shoreline open.
| Meaning 1 | Meaning 2 | |
|---|---|---|
| everyday | ||
| warm | ||
| professional |
| |
| formal | ||
| literary |
everyday
Fits when vocal excitement and encouragement dominate
Careful Cheering is louder and less measured than applause.
everyday
clap
Fits when the physical action is all you need to describe
Careful People may clap for rhythm or attention rather than approval.
formal
give an ovation
Fits when exceptional public approval continues at length
Careful An ovation wildly overstates a polite round of clapping.
literary
salute
Fits when respectful recognition of courage or service is central
Careful Salute carries military associations absent from many achievements.
warm
Fits when approval may be personal, spoken, or written
Careful Praise is too broad when public endorsement is the news.
professional
Fits when a decision is received as a positive development
Careful Welcoming a change does not necessarily praise those responsible.
formal
Fits when careful verbal praise honors worthy conduct
Careful Commendation is official and lacks the communal energy of applause.
applaud loudly
Families applaud loudly when the final runner arrives.
applaud the effort
Even opposing coaches applaud the effort shown by both teams.
stand and applaud
The whole hall began to stand and applaud the retiring custodian.
Definitions and examples are written for this site. How words are chosen Recording: Dvortygirl, American accent, from Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0 Updated
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