take a bow

Idioms  

1. Acknowledge praise or applause, as in The conductor asked the composer to take a bow. This idiom uses bow in the sense of “inclining the body or head as a token of salutation.” [c. 1800]

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

take a bow

In an age when far too many politicians serve past their sell-by date, a leader who knows when to take a bow and go out with an encore is rare.

From The Wall Street Journal ● May 22, 2026

Not everyone has the choice, but you do, so take a bow.

From MarketWatch ● Feb. 5, 2026

"Absolutely, I had my tears at our final meeting where we joined hands and stood up. I said 'We still did great, take a bow."

From BBC ● Jun. 2, 2025

As the show drew to a close, an emotional Williams emerged to take a bow, wiping away tears and pointing skyward in a heartfelt thank you.

From Seattle Times ● Jun. 21, 2023

I looked from the dark noisy blur to Mr. Rice, but he was already turning to take a bow.

From "Jacob Have I Loved" by Katherine Paterson