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]

---

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

To Andrew Friedman and his front office, take a bow too.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 26, 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

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