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Acclaim: meaning, definitions and examples

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acclaim

 

[əˈkleɪm ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

high praise

Acclaim is high praise or approval, especially when publicly expressed. It can also refer to enthusiastic applause or loud approval.

Synonyms

accolade, approval, commendation, praise.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
acclaim

Use this word when describing enthusiastic public praise or approval, often in the context of arts or performances.

  • The movie received critical acclaim for its breathtaking visuals.
  • After the speech, the scientist was met with widespread acclaim.
praise

Utilized for expressing warm approval or admiration, commonly used in everyday conversation.

  • The teacher praised the student for their hard work.
  • She deserves praise for her efforts in organizing the event.
approval

General term for expressing agreement or favorable opinion, often used in both formal and informal contexts.

  • The project received approval from the board of directors.
  • He looked for approval from his parents before making the decision.
accolade

This word is appropriate for a formal recognition or award given in honor of an achievement.

  • She received an accolade for her innovative research in physics.
  • Winning the award was the highest accolade of his career.
commendation

Best used when referring to a formal statement of praise, often in professional or official settings.

  • The employee received a commendation for his dedicated work.
  • The soldier was awarded a commendation for bravery.

Examples of usage

  • The film received critical acclaim from reviewers.
  • The singer was met with thunderous acclaim from the audience.
  • The novel was met with widespread acclaim for its innovative storytelling.
Context #2 | Verb

praise enthusiastically

To acclaim means to praise or welcome someone or something enthusiastically. It can also refer to publicly expressing approval or admiration.

Synonyms

applaud, cheer, commend, praise.

Examples of usage

  • The crowd acclaimed the winner of the competition.
  • The audience acclaimed the performance with a standing ovation.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word originates from the Latin 'acclamare', which means 'to shout out' or 'to cry out'.
  • In the 16th century, the word evolved to signify public praise or applause.
  • It was commonly used in the context of welcoming someone with loud cheers in public gatherings.

Literature

  • Acclaim is often used in book reviews to highlight exceptional writing or storytelling.
  • Writers like Shakespeare and Hemingway faced both acclaim and criticism during their careers, showcasing the subjectivity of literary praise.
  • The phrase 'critical acclaim' refers to the positive reviews given by literary critics, which can significantly impact a book's popularity.

Pop Culture

  • Acclaimed movies often win awards like Oscars or Golden Globes, signifying industry recognition.
  • Musicians like Beyoncé and Taylor Swift receive acclaim not just for their music but also for their social impact.
  • The term 'acclaimed' appears frequently in press releases when promoting artists or performances to highlight their previous successes.

Psychology

  • Receiving acclaim can increase confidence and motivation, reinforcing positive behavior.
  • Studies show that people are more likely to pursue goals if they believe their accomplishments will be publicly recognized.
  • Public acclaim can also affect self-esteem, with some individuals thriving on acknowledgment while others may find it overwhelming.

History

  • Historical figures like Nelson Mandela and Martin Luther King Jr. received international acclaim for their contributions to social justice.
  • In ancient Rome, successful generals were often acclaimed by their soldiers, leading to parades and celebrations.
  • Many artists during the Renaissance gained acclaim during their lifetime, often influencing public taste and culture.

Translations

Translations of the word "acclaim" in other languages:

🇵🇹 aplauso

🇮🇳 सराहना

🇩🇪 Anerkennung

🇮🇩 pujian

🇺🇦 визнання

🇵🇱 uznanie

🇯🇵 称賛

🇫🇷 acclamation

🇪🇸 aclamación

🇹🇷 takdir

🇰🇷 칭찬

🇸🇦 مدح

🇨🇿 uznání

🇸🇰 uznanie

🇨🇳 赞誉

🇸🇮 priznanje

🇮🇸 viðurkenning

🇰🇿 мойындау

🇬🇪 აღიარება

🇦🇿 tanınma

🇲🇽 aclamación

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,971, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.