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A2 verb #5,500 le plus courant 11 min de lecture

aplaudir

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Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces aplaudir en 30 secondes

Explication aplaudir in your Level:

At the A1 level, 'aplaudir' is a useful verb to describe basic actions in a social setting. You will learn it alongside other physical actions like 'cantar' (to sing) or 'bailar' (to dance). At this stage, you should focus on the present tense: 'Yo aplaudo', 'Tú aplaudes', 'Él aplaude'. It is often used in the context of games, songs, or simple celebrations like birthdays. You might hear '¡Vamos a aplaudir!' during a fun activity. The goal at A1 is to recognize the word and use it in short, simple sentences to express that someone is clapping. You don't need to worry about complex metaphorical meanings yet; just think of the sound of hands hitting each other in joy. It's a regular '-ir' verb, which helps you practice the standard conjugation patterns you are learning. Remember that in Spanish, we often 'aplaudir' when we are happy, so it's a very positive word to have in your early vocabulary. You can use it to participate in basic conversations about what people are doing at a party or a show. Even with a limited vocabulary, 'aplaudir' allows you to describe a very common human reaction to something good.

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At the A2 level, you begin to use 'aplaudir' in more varied tenses, particularly the preterite (past tense) to describe events that already happened. For example, 'El público aplaudió mucho ayer' (The audience applauded a lot yesterday). You also start to use it with direct objects, and this is where the 'personal a' becomes important. If you applaud a person, you must say 'aplaudo a mi amigo'. At A2, you are also introduced to the idea that 'aplaudir' can mean to 'praise' or 'approve' of something, not just the physical act. You might see it in simple news stories or social media posts where people 'aplauden' a good deed. You should also be able to use adverbs to describe the applause, such as 'aplaudir fuerte' or 'aplaudir lentamente'. This level is about building the bridge between the literal action and the social meaning of the word. You will also encounter the noun 'aplauso' more frequently and should be able to distinguish between 'El aplauso fue largo' (The applause was long) and 'Ellos aplaudieron' (They applauded).

By the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 'aplaudir' in all the indicative tenses, including the imperfect ('aplaudían') and the future ('aplaudirán'). You will also start using the subjunctive mood, which is common after expressions of emotion or desire: 'Me alegra que todos aplaudan' (I'm glad everyone is applauding) or 'Espero que el público aplauda mi presentación' (I hope the audience applauds my presentation). At B1, the metaphorical use of 'aplaudir' becomes more common in your reading and writing. You might 'aplaudir' a new government policy, a friend's decision to study abroad, or a company's commitment to the environment. You are expected to understand the nuance between 'aplaudir' and its synonyms like 'ovacionar' or 'celebrar'. You can also use the word in more complex sentence structures, such as 'Después de haber aplaudido durante diez minutos, la gente empezó a salir' (After having applauded for ten minutes, people started to leave). Your vocabulary is expanding to include common collocations like 'aplaudir con entusiasmo' or 'aplaudir a rabiar'.

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At the B2 level, 'aplaudir' is used with a high degree of precision and in more formal contexts. You should be able to use it in the passive voice—'La propuesta fue aplaudida por los socios' (The proposal was applauded by the partners)—and in conditional sentences. You will understand and use idiomatic expressions related to applause. At this stage, you are expected to navigate the different registers of the word, knowing that 'aplaudir' is appropriate for a formal report while 'vitorear' might be better for a lively festival description. You will also encounter 'aplaudir' in literary texts where it might be used to describe nature or abstract forces (e.g., 'las olas aplauden contra las rocas' - a poetic personification). Your ability to use 'aplaudir' sarcastically or ironically also develops at this level. You can discuss the social implications of applause, such as 'la presión social para aplaudir' (the social pressure to applaud). You are no longer just learning the word; you are using it as a tool to express complex social and emotional dynamics.

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At the C1 level, your use of 'aplaudir' is sophisticated and nuanced. You can use it to discuss subtle differences in public opinion or critical reception. For example, you might analyze why a critic 'aplaudió la técnica pero criticó el contenido' (applauded the technique but criticized the content). You are familiar with rare or academic synonyms and can use 'aplaudir' in complex rhetorical structures. Your understanding of the word includes its historical and cultural connotations in various Spanish-speaking countries. You can use the word to write persuasive essays or deliver formal speeches where 'aplaudir' serves as a powerful verb for endorsement. You also recognize the word in legal or highly technical documents where it might refer to the formal approval of a treaty or agreement. At C1, you are sensitive to the rhythm and flow of the language, choosing 'aplaudir' or its alternatives to achieve a specific stylistic effect in your writing. You can also interpret the absence of applause as a significant communicative act in itself.

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At the C2 level, you have a masterly command of 'aplaudir' and all its related forms. You can use it in any context, from the most archaic literary analysis to the most modern political commentary. You understand the deepest etymological roots of the word and how it has evolved over centuries. You can play with the word in creative writing, using it in metaphors that are both original and culturally resonant. Your use of 'aplaudir' is indistinguishable from that of an educated native speaker. You can lead discussions on the philosophy of public approval or the sociology of performance, using 'aplaudir' as a key concept. You are also able to translate the word into English with perfect accuracy, capturing every shade of meaning and every cultural nuance. For a C2 learner, 'aplaudir' is not just a verb; it is a versatile instrument for expressing a wide range of human values, from the simplest joy to the most complex institutional validation.

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Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

aplaudir en 30 secondes

Aplaudir means to clap or praise. It is a regular -ir verb used to show approval physically or metaphorically in various social situations.
Use it with the 'personal a' when applauding people (e.g., aplaudir a los músicos). It is essential for expressing gratitude and celebration.
Commonly heard in theaters, stadiums, and news reports. It ranges from literal hand-clapping to symbolic institutional support for ideas or policies.
Synonyms include 'ovacionar' for intense praise and 'palmear' for rhythmic clapping. Antonyms include 'abuchear' (to boo) or 'pitar' (to whistle).

The Spanish verb aplaudir is a fundamental term that resonates through the halls of theaters, the stands of stadiums, and the quiet rooms of personal achievement. At its most basic level, it describes the physical act of striking the palms of the hands together repeatedly to create a sharp sound. However, in the rich tapestry of the Spanish language, it carries a weight far beyond the mechanical movement of limbs. It is the universal signal of approval, admiration, and celebration. When you use this word, you are not just talking about noise; you are talking about the human impulse to validate excellence and show gratitude for a performance well done.

Physical Context: In a literal sense, it refers to clapping. You might hear it at a concert where the audience is encouraged: '¡Todos a aplaudir!' (Everyone clap!). It is the physical manifestation of joy or rhythm, often accompanying music or a rhythmic chant.
Metaphorical Approval: Beyond the physical, it means to endorse or praise an idea or action. If a politician introduces a popular law, the newspapers might say 'La prensa aplaude la nueva ley' (The press applauds the new law). Here, no one is literally clapping; they are expressing strong support and agreement.
Social Etiquette: In Spanish-speaking cultures, the act of applauding is deeply tied to social cohesion. It is common to applaud at the end of a long flight upon landing, at the end of a university lecture, or even during a birthday celebration when the cake is brought out. Understanding when to use 'aplaudir' involves understanding the collective spirit of these cultures.

Al terminar la función, todo el teatro se puso de pie para aplaudir al actor principal por su increíble interpretación.

Translation: At the end of the performance, the entire theater stood up to applaud the lead actor for his incredible performance.

Es importante aplaudir el esfuerzo de los niños, incluso si no ganan el partido.

Translation: It is important to praise the children's effort, even if they don't win the match.

The verb follows a regular conjugation pattern for '-ir' verbs, making it relatively straightforward for learners to master. Whether you are at a flamenco show in Seville or a business meeting in Mexico City, knowing how to express the act of 'aplaudir' allows you to participate in the shared emotional experiences of the Spanish-speaking world. It bridges the gap between mere observation and active participation in community life.

La multitud no dejaba de aplaudir tras el discurso del líder.

Translation: The crowd wouldn't stop applauding after the leader's speech.

Si estás feliz y lo sabes, ¡tienes que aplaudir!

Translation: If you're happy and you know it, you have to clap!

Debemos aplaudir la valentía de quienes denuncian las injusticias.

Translation: We must applaud the courage of those who denounce injustices.

Using aplaudir correctly involves more than just knowing its meaning; it requires understanding its grammatical structure and the prepositions that often accompany it. As a transitive verb, it frequently takes a direct object—the person or thing being applauded. However, it can also function intransitively when the focus is solely on the action of clapping itself. In this section, we will explore the nuances of its syntax and how to modify it to convey specific levels of enthusiasm.

Direct Objects and Prepositions: When you applaud a person, you use the 'personal a'. For example: 'Aplaudimos a la cantante' (We applauded the singer). When applauding an abstract concept or an inanimate object, the 'a' is not used: 'Aplaudimos su decisión' (We applauded her decision). This distinction is crucial for sounding natural in Spanish.
Adverbial Modifiers: To describe how someone is applauding, we use adverbs like 'fuertemente' (strongly), 'entusiastamente' (enthusiastically), or 'de pie' (standing up). A 'standing ovation' in Spanish is often described as 'aplaudir de pie' or 'una ovación de pie'.
Tense and Mood Shifts: Because 'aplaudir' is a regular -ir verb, its forms are predictable. In the preterite, it describes a completed act of applause: 'El público aplaudió' (The audience applauded). In the subjunctive, it often follows verbs of desire or emotion: 'Espero que todos aplaudan' (I hope everyone applauds).

Si el equipo marca un gol, todos los aficionados van a aplaudir con mucha fuerza.

Translation: If the team scores a goal, all the fans are going to applaud very loudly.

Nadie aplaudió después de que terminó el aburrido discurso del director.

Translation: No one applauded after the director's boring speech ended.

In formal writing, 'aplaudir' is often used to signal institutional support. For instance, a company might 'aplaudir' a new environmental regulation. This use is slightly more sophisticated and shows a high command of the language's register. It transitions from a simple action to a statement of values.

¿Por qué estás aplaudiendo si la película todavía no ha terminado?

Translation: Why are you clapping if the movie hasn't finished yet?

Aunque no estemos de acuerdo, debemos aplaudir su honestidad al admitir el error.

Translation: Even if we don't agree, we must applaud his honesty in admitting the mistake.

El público solía aplaudir durante minutos después de cada aria de la ópera.

Translation: The audience used to applaud for minutes after every aria of the opera.

The word aplaudir is ubiquitous in Spanish-speaking life, echoing through various environments from the most formal to the most casual. If you are learning Spanish, you will encounter this word in contexts that range from television broadcasts to family gatherings. Understanding where it pops up will help you recognize it in real-time and use it appropriately.

Entertainment and Media: On variety shows or talk shows like 'El Hormiguero', the host often prompts the audience: '¡Un fuerte aplauso para nuestro invitado!' (A big round of applause for our guest!). Here, the related noun 'aplauso' is used, but the verb 'aplaudir' is the underlying action requested.
Sports Journalism: In sports news, you'll hear commentators say: 'La grada aplaudió el gesto de deportividad' (The stands applauded the gesture of sportsmanship). It is used to describe the fans' reaction to a fair play moment or a spectacular goal.
Political and Social Discourse: In the news, 'aplaudir' is the go-to verb for describing institutional or public support for a policy. 'La comunidad internacional aplaudió el acuerdo de paz' (The international community applauded the peace agreement). It signifies collective endorsement.

Es costumbre aplaudir al piloto cuando el avión aterriza con seguridad en algunos países hispanos.

Translation: It is customary to applaud the pilot when the plane lands safely in some Hispanic countries.

Los vecinos salieron a los balcones para aplaudir a los trabajadores sanitarios durante la pandemia.

Translation: Neighbors went out to their balconies to applaud healthcare workers during the pandemic.

You will also hear it in academic settings. After a thesis defense or a significant presentation, the audience will 'aplaudir' to show respect for the student's hard work. It is a sound that marks the transition from tension to relief and success.

En el circo, los niños no paraban de aplaudir las acrobacias de los trapecistas.

Translation: At the circus, the children wouldn't stop applauding the trapeze artists' acrobatics.

Al oír la noticia de su ascenso, todos sus compañeros empezaron a aplaudir.

Translation: Upon hearing the news of her promotion, all her colleagues started to applaud.

El director técnico aplaudió el esfuerzo de sus jugadores a pesar de la derrota.

Translation: The coach applauded his players' effort despite the defeat.

While aplaudir is a relatively simple verb, English speakers often make specific errors when translating the concept of 'clapping' into Spanish. These mistakes usually stem from direct translation or a misunderstanding of how Spanish verbs interact with objects and other verbs.

Clapping for Attention vs. Applauding: In English, we 'clap' to get someone's attention or to follow a beat. While 'aplaudir' can be used for rhythm, 'dar palmadas' or 'palmear' is often more accurate for simple hand-clapping that isn't about praise. Saying 'El profesor aplaudió para que nos calláramos' sounds like the teacher was praising the students for being loud, when you probably meant 'El profesor dio palmadas'.
The Missing 'Personal A': As mentioned before, forgetting the 'a' when applauding a person is a common A2-level mistake. 'Aplaudí el actor' is incorrect; it must be 'Aplaudí al actor'. This small preposition is the difference between sounding like a beginner and sounding like a proficient speaker.
Confusing Noun and Verb: Learners sometimes confuse 'aplaudir' (to applaud) with 'aplauso' (applause). You cannot 'aplauso' someone. You can 'dar un aplauso' (give a round of applause) or 'aplaudir' (applaud). Ensure you are using the verb form when describing the action.

Incorrecto: Yo aplaudo mis amigos.
Correcto: Yo aplaudo a mis amigos.

Note: Always use 'a' when the object is a specific person or group of people.

Incorrecto: Ellos están aplausos.
Correcto: Ellos están aplaudiendo.

Note: Use the gerund '-iendo' for ongoing actions.

Another subtle mistake is using 'aplaudir' when 'felicitar' (to congratulate) might be more appropriate. If you want to say 'I applaud you for your graduation,' it's better to say 'Te felicito por tu graduación,' unless you are literally clapping for them in a ceremony.

Incorrecto: El público aplaudió de el músico.
Correcto: El público aplaudió al músico.

Note: Don't use 'de' after 'aplaudir'.

Incorrecto: ¿Quieres aplaudir las manos?
Correcto: ¿Quieres dar palmadas?

Note: 'Aplaudir' implies clapping, so 'aplaudir las manos' is redundant and awkward.

While aplaudir is the most common way to express clapping or approval, Spanish offers a variety of synonyms and related terms that can add precision to your speech. Depending on the intensity of the applause or the context of the praise, you might choose a different word.

Ovacionar: This is a more intense version of 'aplaudir'. It implies a standing ovation or a very enthusiastic, loud, and prolonged round of applause. 'El estadio ovacionó al jugador' suggests a much more powerful scene than just 'aplaudió'.
Vitorear: This means to cheer or shout with joy while applauding. It often involves shouting '¡Bravo!' or '¡Viva!'. It is the combination of vocal and physical praise.
Palmear: Used frequently in the context of Flamenco, 'palmear' refers to the rhythmic clapping that accompanies the dance and music. It is a technical skill rather than just a sign of approval.
Jalear: To encourage someone with shouts and clapping, often in a festive or traditional setting. It's about creating an atmosphere of excitement.

En lugar de solo aplaudir, la multitud comenzó a vitorear el nombre del campeón.

Translation: Instead of just applauding, the crowd began to cheer the champion's name.

Es fascinante ver cómo los artistas de flamenco pueden palmear ritmos tan complejos.

Translation: It is fascinating to see how flamenco artists can clap such complex rhythms.

For the opposite of 'aplaudir', you have 'abuchear' (to boo) or 'pitar' (to whistle/boo). In Spanish culture, whistling at a performance is usually a sign of extreme displeasure, whereas in some English-speaking contexts, it can be a form of cheering. Be careful with this cultural difference!

El público pasó de aplaudir a abuchear cuando el árbitro tomó esa decisión injusta.

Translation: The audience went from applauding to booing when the referee made that unfair decision.

No hace falta ovacionar cada pequeña cosa; con un simple aplauso es suficiente.

Translation: There's no need to give a standing ovation for every little thing; a simple applause is enough.

Los críticos suelen aplaudir las obras que rompen con lo tradicional.

Translation: Critics usually applaud works that break with tradition.

How Formal Is It?

Formel

"La junta directiva desea aplaudir la impecable gestión del departamento financiero."

Neutre

"El público aplaudió durante varios minutos al final del concierto."

Informel

"¡Venga, todos a aplaudir que ha sido genial!"

Child friendly

"¡Mira cómo el payaso nos enseña a aplaudir!"

Argot

"Le están aplaudiendo hasta los peos (vulgar/regional)."

Le savais-tu ?

The Latin root 'plaudere' is also the source of the English words 'plausible' (originally meaning 'worthy of applause') and 'explode' (which originally meant to 'clap an actor off the stage').

Guide de prononciation

UK /əˈplɔːdɪə/

US /əˈplɔːdɪr/

The stress is on the last syllable: aplau-DIR.

Rime avec

decidir dormir escribir vivir sentir partir abrir subir

Erreurs fréquentes

Pronouncing 'au' like the English 'aw' in 'law'. It should be 'ah-oo'.
Putting the stress on the second-to-last syllable (ap-LAU-dir).
Failing to tap the 'r' at the end.
Pronouncing the 'p' with too much air (aspiration).
Making the 'd' too hard; in Spanish, it's softer between vowels.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 1/5

The word is very similar to its English cognate, making it easy to recognize.

Écriture 2/5

Requires remembering the -ir conjugation and the 'personal a'.

Expression orale 2/5

The 'au' diphthong and final 'r' require some practice for perfect pronunciation.

Écoute 1/5

Clear phonetic structure makes it easy to hear in conversation.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

mano querer música bien fiesta

Apprends ensuite

ovacionar abuchear felicitar celebrar público

Avancé

encomiar aclamar vitorear palmear jalear

Grammaire à connaître

Regular -ir Verb Conjugation

Present: aplaudo, aplaudes, aplaude, aplaudimos, aplaudís, aplauden.

The Personal 'A'

Always use 'a' before a person: 'Aplaudimos a la niña'.

Gerund formation for -ir verbs

Drop -ir and add -iendo: aplaudiendo.

Past Participle formation

Drop -ir and add -ido: aplaudido.

Subjunctive Mood Triggers

Verbs of emotion like 'alegrarse' trigger the subjunctive: 'Me alegra que aplaudas'.

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Exemples par niveau

Yo aplaudo cuando mi amigo canta.

I clap when my friend sings.

Present tense, first person singular.

¿Quieres aplaudir conmigo?

Do you want to clap with me?

Infinitive after the verb 'querer'.

Los niños aplauden en la fiesta.

The children clap at the party.

Present tense, third person plural.

¡Es hora de aplaudir!

It's time to clap!

Infinitive used as a noun phrase.

Ella aplaude muy feliz.

She claps very happily.

Present tense, third person singular.

Nosotros aplaudimos la música.

We clap to the music.

Present tense, first person plural.

Tú aplaudes después del video.

You clap after the video.

Present tense, second person singular.

El bebé empieza a aplaudir.

The baby starts to clap.

Infinitive after 'empezar a'.

El público aplaudió al final de la película.

The audience applauded at the end of the movie.

Preterite tense, third person singular (collective noun).

Ayer aplaudimos a los ganadores.

Yesterday we applauded the winners.

Preterite tense, use of 'personal a'.

Ella siempre aplaude cuando ve un perro.

She always claps when she sees a dog.

Present tense, habitual action.

¿Por qué no aplaudiste en el concierto?

Why didn't you applaud at the concert?

Preterite tense, second person singular question.

Mi abuelo aplaudía con mucha fuerza.

My grandfather used to applaud very strongly.

Imperfect tense, describing a past habit.

Todos van a aplaudir tu gran idea.

Everyone is going to applaud your great idea.

Future with 'ir a' + infinitive.

Si ganas, yo voy a aplaudir muy fuerte.

If you win, I'm going to applaud very loudly.

Conditional 'si' clause (real).

Los estudiantes aplaudieron al profesor.

The students applauded the teacher.

Preterite tense, third person plural.

Espero que el público aplauda al terminar la obra.

I hope the audience applauds at the end of the play.

Present subjunctive after 'esperar que'.

Si ellos aplaudieran, me sentiría más seguro.

If they were to applaud, I would feel more confident.

Imperfect subjunctive in a conditional sentence.

He aplaudido tantas veces que me duelen las manos.

I have applauded so many times that my hands hurt.

Present perfect tense.

Dudo que la gente aplauda ese discurso tan largo.

I doubt people will applaud such a long speech.

Present subjunctive after 'dudar que'.

Estábamos aplaudiendo cuando se fue la luz.

We were applauding when the power went out.

Past progressive tense.

Es importante aplaudir los logros de los demás.

It is important to praise the achievements of others.

Infinitive used after 'es importante'.

No dejes de aplaudir hasta que salgan otra vez.

Don't stop applauding until they come out again.

Negative imperative + 'de' + infinitive.

Aunque nadie aplaudió, ella terminó su canción.

Although no one applauded, she finished her song.

Concessive clause with 'aunque'.

La crítica ha aplaudido unánimemente su nueva novela.

The critics have unanimously applauded his new novel.

Present perfect, metaphorical usage.

Habría sido aplaudido si hubiera dicho la verdad.

He would have been applauded if he had told the truth.

Conditional perfect passive + pluperfect subjunctive.

El público se puso de pie para aplaudir la actuación.

The audience stood up to applaud the performance.

Infinitive of purpose.

No creo que debamos aplaudir este tipo de comportamiento.

I don't think we should applaud this kind of behavior.

Subjunctive after 'no creo que'.

Siguieron aplaudiendo a pesar del cansancio.

They kept applauding despite the fatigue.

'Seguir' + gerund.

Es una medida que muchos ciudadanos aplaudirán.

It is a measure that many citizens will applaud.

Future tense, figurative use.

Al oír su nombre, no pudo evitar aplaudir.

Upon hearing his name, he couldn't help but applaud.

'No poder evitar' + infinitive.

Fue aplaudida por su valentía ante la adversidad.

She was applauded for her courage in the face of adversity.

Passive voice with 'ser'.

La comunidad científica aplaude los avances en medicina.

The scientific community applauds the advances in medicine.

Collective subject, formal register.

Resulta paradójico que aplaudan a quien les miente.

It is paradoxical that they applaud someone who lies to them.

Subjunctive after impersonal expression of value.

Aplaudo tu determinación, pero temo por las consecuencias.

I applaud your determination, but I fear for the consequences.

Metaphorical use in a complex sentence.

La sala estalló en un aplauso que parecía no tener fin.

The room erupted in applause that seemed to have no end.

Use of 'estallar' to describe the start of applause.

Sería de necios no aplaudir una iniciativa tan brillante.

It would be foolish not to applaud such a brilliant initiative.

Conditional mood for hypothetical statement.

Apenas terminó de hablar, comenzaron a aplaudir con desgana.

As soon as he finished speaking, they began to applaud half-heartedly.

'Apenas' + verb, usage of 'con desgana'.

El éxito de la gestión fue aplaudido por los mercados.

The success of the management was applauded by the markets.

Passive voice, financial context.

No hay nada que aplaudir en una victoria conseguida con trampas.

There is nothing to applaud in a victory achieved by cheating.

Relative clause with 'nada que' + infinitive.

La historiografía moderna aplaude la revisión de esos mitos.

Modern historiography applauds the revision of those myths.

Highly academic subject and context.

Aplaudo, no sin cierta reserva, la audacia de su planteamiento.

I applaud, not without some reservation, the audacity of his approach.

Litotes ('no sin cierta') and sophisticated vocabulary.

Su trayectoria es digna de ser aplaudida en todos los foros.

His career is worthy of being applauded in all forums.

Passive infinitive structure.

Se limitó a aplaudir mecánicamente, sumido en sus pensamientos.

He merely clapped mechanically, lost in his thoughts.

Adverbial use and complex participial phrase.

La crítica más feroz terminó por aplaudir su última obra.

The fiercest critics ended up applauding his latest work.

'Terminar por' + infinitive.

Cualquier observador imparcial aplaudiría la pulcritud del proceso.

Any impartial observer would applaud the neatness of the process.

Conditional mood for general truth.

Aplaudo que se haya tomado por fin una decisión tan necesaria.

I applaud that a decision so necessary has finally been made.

Subjunctive in a noun clause after a verb of praise.

El estruendo de los que aplaudían ahogó sus palabras de protesta.

The roar of those applauding drowned out his words of protest.

Substantivized relative clause ('los que aplaudían').

Collocations courantes

aplaudir con entusiasmo

aplaudir de pie

aplaudir una decisión

aplaudir a rabiar

aplaudir efusivamente

aplaudir el gesto

aplaudir fuertemente

aplaudir una iniciativa

romper a aplaudir

aplaudir un gol

Phrases Courantes

¡Un fuerte aplauso!

— A common call to get an audience to clap loudly for someone.

¡Un fuerte aplauso para nuestra ganadora!

Aplaudir hasta que duelan las manos

— To clap so much or so hard that your hands literally start to hurt.

Fue tan bueno que aplaudimos hasta que nos dolieron las manos.

No parar de aplaudir

— To clap continuously without stopping for a long time.

El público no paraba de aplaudir al pianista.

Aplaudir una medida

— To show public or institutional support for a specific rule or law.

Los sindicatos aplaudieron la medida del gobierno.

Merecer ser aplaudido

— To be worthy of praise or recognition for an action.

Tu esfuerzo merece ser aplaudido por todos.

Aplaudir el final

— The standard act of clapping when a performance or event concludes.

Es de buena educación aplaudir el final de la charla.

Aplaudir a alguien

— The basic act of showing approval to a specific person.

Todos vamos a aplaudir a María cuando suba.

Aplaudir la valentía

— To specifically praise someone for being brave.

Debemos aplaudir la valentía de los bomberos.

Aplaudir por inercia

— To clap just because everyone else is, without much thought.

Muchos aplaudían por inercia, sin haber escuchado bien.

Pedir un aplauso

— To ask the audience to clap for someone.

El presentador pidió un aplauso para el equipo técnico.

Souvent confondu avec

aplaudir vs apilar

Means 'to stack'. Sounds similar but unrelated.

aplaudir vs aludir

Means 'to allude'. Similar ending but different meaning.

aplaudir vs aplauso

This is the noun (applause). Don't use it as a verb.

Expressions idiomatiques

"Aplaudir con las orejas"

— To be extremely happy or satisfied with something, to the point of absurdity.

Cuando le dieron el premio, estaba para aplaudir con las orejas.

Colloquial

"Aplaudir a rabiar"

— To applaud with extreme intensity and passion.

La multitud aplaudió a rabiar tras el discurso.

Neutral

"No estar para aplausos"

— To be in a bad mood or a difficult situation where praise is not welcome.

Después de perder el trabajo, no estaba para aplausos.

Informal

"Llevarse los aplausos"

— To get all the credit or praise for something, sometimes unfairly.

Él hizo poco, pero se llevó todos los aplausos.

Neutral

"Sordera de aplausos"

— A metaphorical deafness caused by too much praise, leading to arrogance.

El éxito le dio una sordera de aplausos y ya no escucha críticas.

Literary

"Aplaudir el huevo"

— In some regions, to encourage someone's nonsense or bad behavior.

No le aplaudas el huevo, que se cree que tiene razón.

Slang (Regional)

"Bañarse en aplausos"

— To enjoy a long period of intense public praise.

La actriz se bañó en aplausos durante su gira.

Poetic

"Arrancar un aplauso"

— To manage to get the audience to clap, often through a specific clever remark.

Su broma logró arrancar un aplauso espontáneo.

Neutral

"Vivir del aplauso"

— To depend emotionally or financially on the approval of others.

Muchos artistas viven del aplauso de su público.

Reflective

"Cazar aplausos"

— To do things specifically to get attention or praise rather than out of sincerity.

Ese político solo está cazando aplausos fáciles.

Critical

Facile à confondre

aplaudir vs palmear

Both involve hands.

Aplaudir is for approval; palmear is for rhythm (flamenco) or patting someone.

Ella palmeó su espalda para consolarlo.

aplaudir vs felicitar

Both express praise.

Felicitar is verbal (to congratulate); aplaudir is physical or general endorsement.

Te felicito por tu nuevo trabajo.

aplaudir vs celebrar

Both are positive.

Celebrar is to have a party or commemorate; aplaudir is specifically to clap or endorse.

Vamos a celebrar tu cumpleaños.

aplaudir vs vitorear

Very similar in context.

Vitorear always implies shouting 'vivas' or cheers; aplaudir is just the clapping.

Vitorearon al héroe nacional.

aplaudir vs abuchear

Opposite meaning but same context.

Abuchear is to boo; aplaudir is to clap. They are antonyms.

El público empezó a abuchear al árbitro.

Structures de phrases

Sujeto + aplaude.

El niño aplaude.

Sujeto + aplaudió + a + Persona.

Juan aplaudió a su hermana.

Espero que + Sujeto + aplauda.

Espero que el público aplauda.

Sujeto + no para de + aplaudir.

La gente no para de aplaudir.

Objeto + fue aplaudido por + Agente.

La obra fue aplaudida por todos.

Sujeto + aplaudió + de pie.

La grada aplaudió de pie.

Aplaudo + que + Subjuntivo.

Aplaudo que hayan decidido venir.

Sujeto + se limitó a + aplaudir.

Él se limitó a aplaudir fríamente.

Famille de mots

Noms

Verbes

Adjectifs

Apparenté

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Comment l'utiliser

frequency

High. This is a top 2000 word in Spanish.

Erreurs courantes

Using 'aplaudir' for rhythm without context. → Use 'llevar el ritmo' or 'palmear'.
'Aplaudir' strongly implies praise. If you are just keeping a beat, 'palmear' is often more accurate.
Omitting the 'a' when applauding a person. → Aplaudir a alguien.
This is the 'personal a' rule. If the direct object is a person, 'a' is required.
Confusing 'aplauso' (noun) with 'aplaudir' (verb). → Yo aplaudo (verb); el aplauso (noun).
You cannot say 'Yo aplauso'. You must conjugate the verb correctly.
Using 'aplaudir de' for 'applaud for'. → Aplaudir a / Aplaudir por.
Spanish doesn't use 'de' here. Use 'a' for the person or 'por' for the reason.
Pronouncing 'au' as one vowel. → Ah-oo.
It's a diphthong where both vowels should be present. Don't let them merge into an English 'o'.

Astuces

Conjugation Mastery

Since it's a regular verb, use it to practice your -ir endings. If you know 'vivir', you know 'aplaudir'. Write out the full table to reinforce the pattern in your memory.

Cognate Advantage

Notice that 'aplaudir' looks like 'applaud'. Use this similarity to quickly recall the word when you are in a social situation and want to express approval.

The Plane Landing

If you travel to Spain or Latin America and people start clapping when the plane lands, join in! It's a great way to feel part of the local culture and practice the word.

The Soft 'D'

Try to make the 'd' in 'aplaudir' very soft, almost like a 'th' in 'this'. This will make your Spanish sound much more authentic and less like you are reading from a book.

Leading the Crowd

If you are at a party, try saying '¡Un aplauso para [Name]!'. It's a simple, high-impact phrase that will make you sound confident and fluent in a social setting.

Metaphorical Use

In your Spanish essays, use 'aplaudir' to show you support a character's choice or a historical decision. It adds a nice touch of rhetorical flair to your writing.

TV Context

Watch Spanish talk shows. You will hear the word 'aplauso' or 'aplaudir' constantly. It's a great way to hear the word used in its most natural, high-energy environment.

Synonym Challenge

Once you are comfortable with 'aplaudir', try to use 'ovacionar' for something truly amazing. Expanding your range of synonyms is key to moving from A2 to B1.

Encouragement

Use 'aplaudir' to encourage other learners. 'Aplaudo tu progreso' (I applaud your progress) is a kind and motivating thing to say to a study partner.

Physical Link

Every time you literally clap your hands today, say the word 'aplaudir'. Creating a physical link between the action and the word is one of the fastest ways to learn.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of an 'Apple' ('apla-') and 'Deer' ('-udir'). Imagine an Apple Deer performing on stage, and you are clapping for it!

Association visuelle

Visualize a pair of hands glowing with golden light every time they hit each other, representing the value of the 'aplauso'.

Word Web

Teatro Manos Sonido Éxito Público Bravo Concierto Aprobación

Défi

Try to say 'aplaudir' five times fast while clapping in rhythm. This connects the physical action to the verbal sound in your brain.

Origine du mot

From the Latin verb 'applaudere'.

Sens originel : To strike upon, to clap (hands).

Romance (Latin root).

Contexte culturel

Be aware that in some very formal religious or funeral settings, applauding might be considered inappropriate unless specifically invited.

In English, we often use 'clap' for the physical act and 'applaud' for the formal/metaphorical act. Spanish uses 'aplaudir' for both, though 'dar palmadas' is more literal.

The song 'Si estás feliz y lo sabes, aplaude' (If you're happy and you know it, clap your hands). The tradition of 'El Aplauso de las Ocho' during the COVID-19 pandemic. The 'Gaviota de Oro' at the Viña del Mar Festival, where the 'monstruo' (the audience) decides who to applaud.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

At a Theater or Concert

¡Otra, otra!
Un fuerte aplauso
Ovación de pie
Aplaudir al director

At a Birthday Party

¡Cumpleaños feliz!
Aplaudir al soplar las velas
¡Que viva el cumpleañero!
Todos a aplaudir

In a Business Meeting

Aplaudir la propuesta
Un gesto aplaudible
Reconocimiento público
Aprobación unánime

At a Sports Event

Aplaudir un gol
La grada aplaude
Deportividad
Aplaudir al rival

Social Media / News

Las redes aplauden
Viral
Comentario aplaudido
Reacción del público

Amorces de conversation

"¿Crees que es necesario aplaudir al final de una película en el cine?"

"¿Cuál ha sido el concierto donde más has aplaudido en tu vida?"

"¿Te sientes cómodo cuando la gente te empieza a aplaudir por algo?"

"¿Qué opinas de la costumbre de aplaudir cuando aterriza un avión?"

"¿Por qué crees que los seres humanos necesitamos aplaudir para mostrar alegría?"

Sujets d'écriture

Describe una vez que tuviste que aplaudir a alguien aunque no estuvieras de acuerdo con lo que hizo.

Escribe sobre un momento en el que sentiste que merecías ser aplaudido pero nadie lo hizo.

¿Cómo crees que cambiaría un concierto si el público no pudiera aplaudir?

Reflexiona sobre la importancia de aplaudir los pequeños logros diarios en nuestra vida personal.

Imagina un mundo donde aplaudir fuera la única forma de comunicación. ¿Cómo sería?

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

It is a completely regular -ir verb. This means you can follow the standard rules for verbs like 'vivir' or 'escribir'. For example: aplaudo, aplaudí, aplaudiré.

You need the 'personal a' when the object being applauded is a specific person or a group of people. Example: 'Aplaudimos a la cantante'. If you are applauding an idea or a movie, you don't need it: 'Aplaudimos la película'.

Yes, it is very common in figurative speech to mean 'to praise' or 'to approve'. For example, 'Aplaudo tu valentía' means 'I praise your courage', even if you aren't literally clapping.

'Aplaudir' is the general word for clapping to show you like something. 'Palmear' is more specific and often refers to rhythmic clapping in music, like Flamenco, or patting something with the palm of your hand.

You can say 'una ovación de pie' or use the verb phrase 'aplaudir de pie'. For example: 'Todo el mundo aplaudió de pie' (Everyone gave a standing ovation).

Generally, yes, unless it is a specific tribute where the family asks for it. It's more common to show respect through silence or 'pésame' (condolences).

It's an idiom that means to applaud very intensely or furiously. It shows that the audience was extremely impressed and couldn't stop clapping.

Yes, you can, but 'llevar el compás' or 'palmear' is often more precise for keeping a beat. However, in a simple context like a children's song, 'aplaudir' is fine.

The noun 'aplauso' is masculine: 'el aplauso', 'los aplausos'.

For 'tú', it is 'aplaude'. For 'usted', it is 'aplauda'. For 'nosotros', 'aplaudamos'. For 'ustedes', 'aplaudan'. And for 'vosotros' (in Spain), 'aplaudid'.

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