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

If imitation truly is the sincerest form of flattery, perhaps Americans should take a bow.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 12, 2026

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

From MarketWatch • Feb. 5, 2026

The musicians pounded their feet on the Davies Symphony Hall stage, resisting Salonen’s urgings to stand and take a bow.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 17, 2025

"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

Now all eyes turned to the footlights, as each dancer came forward to take a bow and bask in the applause.

From "The Long-Lost Home" by Maryrose Wood