get a standing ovation

Meaning

This expression means to receive a period of prolonged applause during which the audience stands up to show their extraordinary appreciation and approval. It is typically used in the context of live performances like theater, concerts, speeches, or sports events. The tone is highly positive and celebratory.

Examples

• The young pianist got a standing ovation after her flawless performance.

  The young pianist got a standing ovation after her flawless performance.

• At the end of the play, the entire cast got a standing ovation from the crowd.

  At the end of the play, the entire cast got a standing ovation from the crowd.

• It is rare for a guest speaker to get a standing ovation at this conference.

  It is rare for a guest speaker to get a standing ovation at this conference.

• She was so moved when she got a standing ovation that she started to cry.

  She was so moved when she got a standing ovation that she started to cry.

• The veteran actor got a standing ovation the moment he walked onto the stage.

  The veteran actor got a standing ovation the moment he walked onto the stage.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ The singer got a standing applaud.

  ✓ The singer got a standing ovation.

  'Applaud' is a verb. The noun for this specific type of standing applause is 'ovation'.

• ✗ The crowd stood up and gave a standing ovation.

  ✓ The crowd gave a standing ovation.

  'Standing ovation' already implies that the crowd stood up, so saying 'stood up and gave' is redundant.

Related Expressions

Practice

• The opera singer's powerful final note was so incredible that she ___.

  💡 The audience stood up and applauded.

  Show answer

  got a standing ovation

• It's every theater actor's dream to ___ on opening night.

  💡 Receive enthusiastic applause from a standing crowd.

  Show answer

  get a standing ovation