Meaning
Acclaim means to praise someone or something publicly and enthusiastically. It can be used as both a verb (“to acclaim”) and a noun (“acclaim”).
- Verb: to praise or applaud with enthusiasm
- Noun: public praise or strong approval
Grammar and Usage
Part of speech:
- Verb (transitive) — requires an object
- Noun (uncountable)
Common structures:
- be acclaimed for (something) → praised for something specific
- be acclaimed as (something) → praised as having a particular quality or role
Examples:
- She was acclaimed for her outstanding performance.
- The film was acclaimed as a masterpiece.
Common Phrases
- critical acclaim – praise from critics
- international acclaim – recognition and praise from around the world
- win acclaim – to receive praise
- receive widespread acclaim – to be highly praised by many people
Collocations
- win / receive / earn acclaim
- international / critical / public acclaim
- acclaimed author / artist / film / performance
Examples
- The director’s new movie received critical acclaim from reviewers.
- She was acclaimed as one of the best violinists of her generation.
- The scientist was acclaimed for her groundbreaking research.
- The book won international acclaim and several awards.
- The play was widely acclaimed by audiences and critics alike.
- He was acclaimed as a national hero after the rescue mission.
- The artist’s unique style quickly earned him acclaim.
- The invention received public acclaim for its innovation.
- The exhibition was acclaimed for its originality.
- Her debut album brought her worldwide acclaim.
Synonyms or Related
- praise
- applaud
- commend
- celebrate
- honor
- admire
- glorify
Antonym
- criticize
- condemn
- disapprove
- denounce