The word "applaud" is commonly used in English to express praise, approval, or appreciation for someone or something. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts, making it a versatile word in the English language. Whether you’re appreciating a performance, congratulating an achievement, or showing support, "applaud" can be an effective word choice.
In this topic, we will explore the meaning of "applaud," its different forms, and examples of how to use it in sentences.
Meaning and Definition of "Applaud"
The verb "applaud" has the following meanings:
- To clap hands together as a sign of approval or appreciation.
- Example: The audience applauded loudly after the performance.
- To express strong approval or admiration for something or someone.
- Example: We applaud the efforts of healthcare workers during the pandemic.
Forms of the Word "Applaud"
- Present tense: applaud
- Past tense: applauded
- Past participle: applauded
- Present participle: applauding
- Noun form: applause (refers to the act of clapping or showing appreciation)
Examples of "Applaud" in Different Contexts
1. Applaud in the Context of Appreciation
- The teacher applauded the students for their hard work and dedication.
- The audience stood up to applaud the singer’s breathtaking performance.
- Everyone applauded the scientist for her groundbreaking discovery.
2. Applaud in the Workplace
- The manager applauded the team for completing the project ahead of schedule.
- We should applaud our colleagues when they achieve success.
- During the meeting, the CEO applauded the employees’ efforts in increasing company profits.
3. Applaud in Social and Political Contexts
- The government applauded the citizens for their cooperation in reducing pollution.
- Many people applauded the new policy aimed at improving healthcare services.
- Environmental activists applauded the company’s decision to use renewable energy.
4. Applaud in Everyday Conversations
- I really applaud your decision to start a new business.
- We should always applaud kindness and generosity in others.
- She applauded her friend’s courage in speaking up against injustice.
5. Applaud in Sports and Entertainment
- The crowd applauded the football team after their victory.
- The movie received critical acclaim, and critics applauded the director’s vision.
- Fans applauded the actor’s emotional speech at the awards ceremony.
Idioms and Phrases Using "Applaud"
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"Applaud the effort, not just the result"
- Meaning: Recognize and appreciate hard work, not just success.
- Example: Even though they didn’t win, the coach applauded the effort of the team.
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"A round of applause"
- Meaning: A moment when people clap their hands to show appreciation.
- Example: Let’s give a round of applause to our guest speaker.
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"Applaud from the sidelines"
- Meaning: To praise or support someone without actively participating.
- Example: He didn’t run in the marathon, but he applauded from the sidelines.
Common Mistakes When Using "Applaud"
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Using "applaud" instead of "applause"
- ❌ Incorrect: The applaud of the crowd was overwhelming.
- ✅ Correct: The applause of the crowd was overwhelming.
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Using "applaud" for negative actions
- ❌ Incorrect: He applauded the thief for his clever trick.
- ✅ Correct: He sarcastically applauded the thief for his clever trick.
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Using "applaud" in the wrong tense
- ❌ Incorrect: They applause the speaker after his speech.
- ✅ Correct: They applauded the speaker after his speech.
How to Improve Your Vocabulary with "Applaud"
- Practice using "applaud" in daily conversations.
- Read news topics and speeches where "applaud" is used.
- Write short essays or stories incorporating the word.
- Listen to speeches or TED Talks and note how "applaud" is used in context.
The word "applaud" is a powerful way to express praise, appreciation, and encouragement in various situations. Whether in formal speeches, casual conversations, or workplace settings, using "applaud" correctly can enhance your communication skills. By practicing with real-life examples, avoiding common mistakes, and understanding different contexts, you can effectively incorporate "applaud" into your vocabulary.
So, next time you want to express admiration or approval, don’t hesitate to applaud someone’s efforts!