What is applause? Pronunciation and usage in English

applause means . Learn how to pronounce and use applause through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of applause

applausenoun

/əˈplɔːz//əˈplɔːz/

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "applause" in English. It can be tricky for some! Here's a breakdown:

1. Syllables:

The word "applause" is divided into three syllables:

  • ap- (like the beginning of "apple")
  • plause (this is the tricky part!)

2. Pronunciation Breakdown:

  • "ap": Pronounced like "app" as in "apple." Short and quick.

  • "plause": This is where most people stumble. Here's how to get it right:

    • "pl": Pronounced like "pl" as in "play".
    • "au": This is a diphthong – a combination of two vowel sounds. It’s closest to the sound in "ow" as in "cow," but slightly shorter and more forward in your mouth. Think of a quick, rounded "ah" sound.
    • "s": Pronounced as a standard "s" sound.

3. Putting it Together:

Say it slowly at first: "ap-pl-ause" (emphasizing the "ap" and "pl").

4. Listen to examples:

  • Google it: Search "how to pronounce applause" on Google and click the audio button. You’ll hear native speakers.
  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/applause/ – This website has pronunciations by native speakers from different regions.

Tips for getting it right:

  • Don't stress the "au" too much: It’s a quick, slight rounding of the lips. Overemphasizing it will make it sound unnatural.
  • Focus on the flow: Connect the syllables smoothly.

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you some example sentences using "applause"?

Usage and examples with the word applause in English

Let's break down how to use the word "applause" in English. It's a fairly straightforward word, but understanding its nuances can help you use it effectively.

1. Basic Meaning:

  • Applause refers to the act of people clapping their hands as a sign of approval, praise, or enjoyment. It's a positive reaction.

2. Forms of the Word:

  • Noun: "Applause" itself is the noun - “The audience gave a huge applause.”
  • Verb: "Applaud" is the verb form – “I applauded her performance.” (Meaning: I showed approval by clapping.)

3. How to Use "Applause" as a Noun (The Most Common Usage):

  • Describing a Reaction: This is the main way you’ll use it.

    • “The comedian received enthusiastic applause after his joke.”
    • “The orchestra’s performance was met with thunderous applause.”
    • “She burst into tears, overwhelmed by the applause.”
    • “There was a smattering of applause at the end of the lecture.” (Means a small, quiet amount of applause)

  • Types of Applause: You can describe the type of applause:

    • Thunderous applause: Very loud and enthusiastic.
    • Warm applause: Friendly and welcoming.
    • Quiet applause: Subtle and polite.
    • Loud applause: Clear and expressive.
    • Cheery applause: Happy and joyful.

4. How to Use "Applaud" as a Verb:

  • Expressing Approval: This is about showing your approval by clapping.
    • "I applauded his bravery." (You clapped to show you admired his bravery.)
    • "The committee applauded his proposal." (They accepted it by clapping.)
    • "Let's applaud the relief effort." (Let's show our approval.)

5. Example Sentences Combining Both Forms:

  • “The singer’s voice moved the audience to thunderous applause.” (Applause – noun; applaud – implied action)
  • "The director applauded the actors' dedication." (Applaud – verb; applause – noun, referring to the reaction)

6. Related Phrases:

  • To give applause: (e.g., "They gave a standing ovation.")
  • To receive applause: (e.g., “The actor received a standing ovation.”)
  • Standing ovation: A prolonged period of applause, often standing up while clapping.

Tips for Using "Applause" Effectively:

  • Context is key: Consider why people are applauding. It’s usually for a good reason – a successful performance, a positive achievement, or a heartfelt moment.
  • Descriptive language: Adding adjectives like “thunderous,” “warm,” or “quiet” helps paint a more vivid picture of the applause.

Do you want me to:

  • Give you more examples?
  • Explain how “standing ovation” works?
  • Provide a quiz to test your understanding?

Synonyms for the word applause

Practice with vocabulary applause

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. After the CEO announced the record-breaking quarterly profits, a wave of collective _________ swept through the conference hall.
  2. Her innovative approach to the complex problem earned her significant professional _________ from her peers.
  3. The final chord of the symphony was met with thunderous _________ that lasted several minutes.
  4. The keynote speaker received a standing _________ for his inspiring address on global sustainability.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which of the following describes a spontaneous public expression of approval, often involving hand clapping? a) Jeering b) Applause c) Mumbling d) Clapping e) Whispers
  2. What might be given to an individual for exceptional achievement and long-standing contributions to their field? a) Censure b) Derision c) Acclaim d) Reprimand e) Recognition
  3. The audience's enthusiastic _________ indicated their strong approval of the theatrical performance. a) Indifference b) Booing c) Applause d) Silence e) Cheering
  4. Which terms are synonymous with general admiration or high praise for someone's work? a) Condemnation b) Adulation c) Disapproval d) Esteem e) Scrutiny
  5. Following the politician's compelling speech, the crowd responded with vigorous _________. a) Questions b) Applause c) Standing d) Heckling e) Whistles

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The committee members all clapped their hands to show their agreement with the new proposal. Rewrite using a form of "applause":
  2. The brilliant scientist was highly praised for her groundbreaking research in quantum physics. Rewrite without using "applause" or its forms:
  3. Everyone in the room cheered and clapped enthusiastically when the athlete won the gold medal. Rewrite using "applause" or a related word form:

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. applause
  2. recognition
  3. applause
  4. ovation

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. b) Applause, d) Clapping
  2. c) Acclaim, e) Recognition
  3. c) Applause, e) Cheering
  4. b) Adulation, d) Esteem
  5. b) Applause, c) Standing

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The committee members all applauded to show their agreement with the new proposal. (Alternatively: The new proposal was met with applause from the committee members.)
  2. The brilliant scientist received high acclaim for her groundbreaking research in quantum physics. (Alternatively: The brilliant scientist received high praise for her groundbreaking research in quantum physics.)
  3. Everyone in the room responded with enthusiastic applause when the athlete won the gold medal. (Alternatively: The athlete's gold medal win was met with enthusiastic applause from everyone in the room.)

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