C1verb10K+

Applaud

UK /["/əˈplɔːd/","/əˈplɔːdz/","/əˈplɔːdɪd/","/əˈplɔːdɪŋ/"]/US /["/əˈplɔːd/","/əˈplɔːdz/","/əˈplɔːdɪd/","/əˈplɔːdɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to show your approval of somebody/something by clapping your hands (= hitting your open hands together several times)

In simple words: To show approval by clapping your hands.

Examples

  • He started to applaud and the others joined in.
  • They rose to applaud the speaker.
  • She was applauded as she came on stage.
  • The audience applauded loudly.
  • We applaud her decision.
  • His efforts to improve the situation are to be applauded.
  • The decision to save the company has been warmly applauded.
  • I applaud her for having the courage to refuse.

Usage notes

Used in both formal and informal contexts. Appropriate when recognizing someone's effort, achievement, or performance. Avoid using in situations where feedback is not welcomed, or in negative contexts.

Grammar pattern

applaud + object

Memory hint

Sounds like 'a-paw-laud' — imagine a dog eagerly clapping its paws to celebrate.

Collocations

  • enthusiastically
  • heartily
  • loudly
  • warmly
  • widely
  • is to be applauded
  • should be applauded

Synonyms

  • clap

Antonyms

  • criticize
  • disapprove
  • condemn

Common mistakes

  • Using 'applaud' as a noun (it’s always a verb).
  • Confusing it with 'applaud by' instead of just 'applaud'.
  • Forgetting to specify who or what is being applauded.