Cool MateApplause vs Big round of applause
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
Applause
Beyond 10,000 (less common)
Big round of applause
InformalTop 2,000 (common)
Most formal: ApplauseMost common: Big round of applause
| Applause | Big round of applause | |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | 🇬🇧 //əˈplɔːz//🇺🇸 //əˈplɔz// | 🇬🇧 //bɪɡ raʊnd əv əˈplɔːz//🇺🇸 //bɪɡ raʊnd əv əˈplɔz// |
| Meaning | Clapping hands to show enjoyment or approval. | A loud show of approval or praise. |
| Example | The audience gave a standing ovation, filled with applause. | Everyone in the audience gave a big round of applause after the speech. |
| Register | Neutral | Informal |
| How common | Beyond 10,000 (less common) | Top 2,000 (common) |
| Collocations | receive applause, burst into applause, polite applause, loud applause, wild applause | give applause, receive applause, deserve applause |
| Antonyms | silence, disapproval | - |
| Common mistakes | Confused with 'applaud' which is the verb form., Using 'applause' in singular form mistakenly., Mispronouncing it with emphasis on the wrong syllable. | Using it in very formal situations where applause isn't appropriate., Misusing the phrase with a negative tone., Not matching the expression with the context of celebration. |
| Usage notes | Used in both formal and informal contexts, but avoid in casual conversation unless discussing performances. | Used in casual contexts to show appreciation, often after a performance or speech. Avoid in formal settings. |
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Frequently asked questions: Applause vs Big round of applause
What's the difference between Applause and Big round of applause?
Applause: Clapping hands to show enjoyment or approval. Big round of applause: A loud show of approval or praise.
Which is more formal: Applause and Big round of applause?
Applause is the most formal of these.
Which is more common: Applause and Big round of applause?
Big round of applause is the most common in everyday English.
Can you show an example of each?
Applause: The audience gave a standing ovation, filled with applause. Big round of applause: Everyone in the audience gave a big round of applause after the speech.
Can I use Applause and Big round of applause interchangeably?
Not always. Applause and Big round of applause are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.