acclamation

/a.klɑ.ma.sjɔ̃/
ovation

Le public a réservé une acclamation debout à l'artiste.

The audience gave the artist a standing ovation.


formal

loud and enthusiastic expression of approval or welcome

Les acclamations ont retenti dans la salle après son discours.

Cheers echoed through the hall after his speech.

Often used in political, artistic, or ceremonial contexts.

Law
formal

act of electing someone by unanimous oral approval rather than formal vote

Le candidat a été nommé par acclamation.

The candidate was elected by acclamation.

Common in parliamentary procedures and assemblies.

Pro Tip

Avoid confusion with 'ovation'

While 'ovation' is a direct synonym, 'acclamation' often implies a more unanimous or formal approval, especially in legal or political contexts.

Gold Rule

Use in context

Reserve 'acclamation' for situations where approval is loud, unanimous, and often ceremonial. For general clapping or praise, 'ovation' or 'applaudissements' may be more appropriate.

Word Origin

From Latin *acclamatio* (shouting, applause), from *acclamare* (to shout at), from *ad-* (to) + *clamare* (to shout).

Usage Notes

Used in both formal and informal contexts, but more common in ceremonial or public settings. In legal contexts, it refers specifically to unanimous oral election without a vote.

Word Breakdown

ac-
prefix meaning 'to' or 'toward'
prefix
+
-clamation
from Latin *clamare* (to shout)
root
Dictionnaire Français-Anglais