How to say "applause" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- 拍手はくしゅnoun, suru verb, intransitive verbThe basic word for applause as the physical act of clapping hands. Choose this when describing an audience clapping, e.g. after a performance or speech.
- 喝采かっさいnoun, suru verb, intransitive verbCovers applause in the sense of enthusiastic cheering — clapping plus shouts of approval. It suits an excited crowd giving a standing ovation or loudly acclaiming a performer.
- 賞賛しょうさんnoun, suru verb, transitive verbThis word means praise or admiration, not the act of applauding, so it is seldom the word you want for 'applause'. Use it only when English means approval expressed in words.この本は賞賛に値する。↗This book is worthy of praise.
Use 拍手 for literal clapping, 喝采 for loud cheers and ovations of enthusiasm, and 賞賛 only when 'applause' means verbal praise or admiration rather than the act of clapping.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
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