Applause lines are phrases or statements made by a speaker that are meant to elicit clapping or cheering from the audience. They are popular phrases that resonate with the crowd and are often used to gain support or show agreement. Full definition
Funding schools, especially in a re-election year for all legislative seats, remains a good applause line for constituents back home. (nystateofpolitics.com)
As a result, though, many are left with the impression that the trust was more a political applause line than a solid proposal. (news.nationalgeographic.com)
WASHINGTON — President Obama came to office promising swift and comprehensive action to combat global climate change, and the topic remains a surefire applause line in his speeches here and abroad. (nytimes.com)